Access to special care dentistry, part 5. Safety

This article considers the delivery of efficient and effective dental services for patients whose disability and/or medical condition may not be obvious and which consequently can present a hidden challenge in the dental setting. Knowing that the patient has a particular condition, what its features are and how it impacts on dental treatment and oral health, and modifying treatment accordingly can minimise the risk of complications. The taking of a careful medical history that asks the right questions in a manner that encourages disclosure is key to highlighting hidden hazards and this article offers guidance for treating those patients who have epilepsy, latex sensitivity, acquired or inherited bleeding disorders and patients taking oral or intravenous bisphosphonates.