Altered hemostasis: considerations for dental care

Patients with altered hemostatic ability present unique challenges for the provision of dental treatment. In this article, a review of normal hemostatic mechanisms is presented, as well as the pathophysiological processes underlying the more common abnormalities associated with altered hemostasis. The products available for managing these problems are reviewed, with a focus on how dental professionals can interact with their medical colleagues to prepare the patient for safe provision of all phases of dental therapy.