, Emerging Speaker - Friday

Subject: 750 - Special Patient Care
Credits: 1 (Lecture)
Friday, July 13: 2 to 3 p.m.
Fee: Free with Registration!
Location: Pool Level, Forum 1-3

Description: Studies indicate a correlation to maternal oral health and early childhood caries. Studies also indicate a link to oral disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Proper attention to maternal oral health needs reduce childhood caries and the potential negative impact on pregnancy and birth outcomes. According to the Institute of Medicine, low birth weight & pre-term birth are the top two reasons for infant mortality.  Worldwide, pre-term birth is the second most common cause of death in children younger than five years. Both pre-term birth and low birth weight have been associated with maternal periodontitis with statistically significant associations. Despite national recommendations, many dentists’ are reluctant to treat pregnant patients, prescribe medications, and take x-rays. A delay in dental care due to pregnancy may worsen dental outcomes and the long-term dental health of the mother and child. Dentists play a significant role in whether pregnant patients receive dental treatment. Disrupting traditional practice patterns of care and evolution of knowledge, attitudes, and practice begins with learning current evidence-based practice guidelines and recommendations. This interactive, lecture course will present evidence-based oral health practice guidelines for the dental professional and the negative impact that poor oral health has on pregnancy outcomes. Participants will learn the latest national consensus recommendations, radiographic guidelines, and what medications are safe to use in the management of pregnant patients. Participants from this session will leave equipped to make evidence-based treatment decisions in the management of pregnant patients.

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