Bariatric surgery and implications for oral health: a case report

A case representative of issues dental practitioners may face when providing care to patients with a history of bariatric surgery is reviewed. Meta-analysis shows that, following bariatric surgery, 43 to 79% of diabetes, hyperlipidemia and hypertension in patients resolved to normal levels or no longer required therapy. However, bariatric surgery side effects have implications for oral health, including nutrient deficiencies impacting healing of oral tissues and gastroesophageal reflux, resulting in tooth erosion. Patients who have undergone bariatric surgery are seen with increasing frequency in dental offices and dental professionals need to be familiar with the challenges these patients present.