The American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning. This allows your dentist to monitor your condition and treat any areas of concern, like swollen, bleeding gums or tooth decay, before they can progress into more serious problems.
However, if you or a loved one has certain developmental disabilities or genetic syndromes, you might have additional challenges regarding dental care. For instance, those with epilepsy or other conditions might have a seizure during their appointment. Continue reading to learn how your provider is likely to handle this situation if it occurs!
What is a Seizure?
Did you know that the brain is home to an estimated 80 to 100 billion neurons? They are linked by synapses that communicate electrochemical signals, which is how your brain transmits information.
A seizure is defined as a sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain that interrupts its normal functionality. Different factors can potentially increase the risk of seizure, such as insomnia, extreme stress, or emotional strain. They can also be caused by medical considerations, like high fever, brain tumors, electrolyte imbalances, and other concerns.
Unfortunately, patients with intellectual disabilities or conditions, such as epilepsy, autism, global developmental delay (GDD), or cerebral palsy, can be anywhere from 5.5% to nearly 40% more likely to also have seizures.
What Happens if I Have a Seizure During a Dental Procedure?
Some dentists, like those who are more experienced working with patients who have unique needs, undergo specialized training to be able to handle the challenges that often accompany certain conditions, including seizures. This allows them to identify when one is occurring so they take the appropriate next steps.
For instance, if you’re in the dentist’s chair and your eyes roll back and you start to convulse, your provider will likely stop the procedure immediately to avoid causing any physical harm and then have someone call 911. Next, they’ll probably move any sharp instruments out of the way and recline your seat to prevent injuries, and place soft towels or pillows around your head to cushion it.
Once the seizing stops, they’ll assess your airway, breathing, and circulation, and might administer oxygen that’s inhaled through a mask placed over your nose and/or mouth. They’ll continue to monitor your vital signs, including your pulse and blood pressure, until EMS arrives and can provide additional care as needed.
Thankfully, your dentist is a medical professional and can help provide a detailed account of what happened to share with emergency services or your primary care physician, making it easier to get the help you need after your seizure!
About the Practice
Patients at Disability Dental Services benefit from a team of providers who are qualified and eager to assist people who have physical or intellectual challenges with their unique oral healthcare needs. Whether you or a loved one requires a checkup and cleaning or a more complex service, they can help! They offer personalized solutions using advanced technology to improve patient comfort, including sedation to help even the most anxious patients feel at ease. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (972) 296-0101.