Bariatric Dental Care Flashcards
What is a ‘bariatric’ person?
an individual of any age who has limitations in health and social care due to physical size, health, mobility and environmental access
what is meant by overweight/obesity?
defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that may impair health
what is the fundamental cause of obesity?
an energy imbalance between calories consumed and calories expended
what other factors can cause/contribute to obesity?
- genetics
- socioeconomic status
- environment
- individual decisions
Is obesity classified as a disability?
According to The Equality Act 2010… NO
- however conditions associated with obesity may lead to disability
What is the role of the dental team in bariatric patients lives?
- identify&diagnose oral health issues associated with bariatric patient
- signpost patients to weight management services
- be aware of co morbidities or predisposition to dental disease
- appropriate referral to secondary & tertiary care
- may have to provide emergency care
- raise concerns
Why might ID blocks be difficult in obese patients?
- loss of anatomical landmarks
- access issues with large cheeks/tongues etc
Why can intra-oral radiography be difficult in obese patients?
increased soft tissues
What are the dental implications of obesity?
- maybe more likely to be periodontal patients due to obesity causing diabetes
- higher caries risk
- poor wound healing due to reduced immune function
- tooth wear (increased prevalence of GORD in bariatric patients)
What is domiciliary care? Why is it good for bariatric patients?
Visiting patients at their home
- some patients may be too large/anxious to leave their home
Is GA suitable for obese patients?
NO
- twice as likely to develop serious airway problems during a GA
