Understanding the patient with epilepsy and seizures in the dental practice

J Can Dent Assoc. 2007 Feb;73(1):71-6.

Abstract

Epilepsy, which is characterized by the risk of recurrent seizures, is a chronic disease that afflicts about 200,000 Canadians at any one time. Dentists with a thorough knowledge of seizure disorders and the medications used to treat them can provide necessary dental and oral health care to these patients. In this review, we summarize current knowledge of epilepsy, seizures and antiepileptic drugs and provide information on dental-related issues, as well as guidelines for the management of an acute seizure in the dental office.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anticonvulsants / adverse effects
  • Anticonvulsants / therapeutic use
  • Dental Care for Chronically Ill / methods*
  • Drug Interactions
  • Emergency Treatment
  • Epilepsy / classification
  • Epilepsy / complications
  • Epilepsy / physiopathology*
  • Epilepsy / therapy
  • Humans
  • Periodontal Diseases / chemically induced
  • Tooth Fractures / etiology
  • Xerostomia / chemically induced

Substances

  • Anticonvulsants