Contact: Susan Urbanczyk
susanu@agd.org
312-440-4308
Academy of General Dentistry
Epilepsy, seizure meds have oral health implications
About 11 percent of the population will suffer some sort of seizure before turning 80 years old. While only about 3 percent of the population will suffer from epilepsy, a central nervous system disorder resulting in recurrent seizures, each seizure can be frightening and potentially dangerous for the sufferer.
Additionally, seizures may have implications for oral health and dental care, according to a recent article in the July/August 2003 issue of General Dentistry, the clinical, peer-reviewed journal of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD).
So if you suffer from seizures, it is crucial that you keep your dentist informed, according to author Eric T. Stoopler, DMD.
'It's extremely important for patients to give their dentist a thorough history of their seizures and lists of medications, as well as their medication levels and blood test results, if necessary.
Dentists also should be updated on patients' progress with their neurologists and other health care professionals,' says Dr. Stoopler.
Seizures can be addressed either through surgery, in some instances, or medication; but anti-seizure drugs often have side effects that can cause oral health problems or complicate dental procedures.
Additionally, drugs commonly used in dentistry could induce seizure activity in epileptics.
Dr. Stoopler urges seizure sufferers to make sure their dentist is aware of their specific conditions. And most important, you should make sure you are comfortable that your dentist knows how to handle a seizure should you have one during a dental treatment, says Dr. Stoopler.
'Armed with the full knowledge of a patient's condition, a dentist can take all the necessary steps to ensure a safe and comfortable visit,' according to Mark Ritz, DDS, MAGD, an AGD spokesperson.
Drs. Ritz and Stoopler also urge epileptics to visit their dentist frequently, as side effects such as dry mouth and overgrown gums require careful attention to oral hygiene.
Side Effects of Seizures and Seizure Medications:
Increased incidence of infection
Xerostomia (dry mouth)
Gingival hypertrophy (overgrown gums)
Delayed healing
Bleeding gums
Postoperative bleeding
Dental Visit Tips For Epileptics:
Take medication prior to appointment.
Inform your dentist of your complete medical history, including seizure history, medications, medication levels, blood levels and contact information for other health care providers.
Schedule appointments within a few hours of taking medication.
Tell the dental team immediately if you see an aura.
Avoid drinking alcohol before your appointment.
