A physician's guide to coordinating oral health and primary care

Knowledge of specific issues of mutual concern and clear communication between primary care physicians and dentists are of special importance for the safe dental treatment of elderly patients. This article reviews the medical-dental management of patients at risk for infective endocarditis, late prosthetic joint infection, excessive bleeding due to anticoagulants, and complications from ischemic heart disease. Behavior management of mentally impaired individuals who are resistant or combative during dental treatment is also discussed.