Oral Health Case Studies

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This essay aims to discuss a patient case scenario based on the information provided as well as existing literature on oral health. Ben, a 15-year-old adolescent patient, presented at the AIH clinic for the first time for an oral examination. He mentions having pain in certain areas while eating sweets, and he also states that he has not visited an Oral Health Practitioner in 3 years. A good starting point for assessing and managing individual patients’ situation is by obtaining a good medical, dental as well as social history. During his initial visit, I will ask Ben some questions regarding a number of major systems such as cardiovascular and respiratory system. I will also ask him questions regarding specific conditions or disorders such …show more content…
The extra-oral examination assesses any abnormalities of the lymph nodes, temporomandibular joint and any presence of …show more content…
This is evident by the generalised edema and erythema of the gingival tissue. It is common in children with poorly controlled type-1 diabetes, but is often reversible with control of diabetic state (REF). In relation to pain around the teeth 15 and 16, I will diagnose him with reversible pulpitis. The symptoms present are consistent with those of reversible pulpitis, as Ben feels pain upon eating something sweet which disappears as he stops eating sweet food. The number of carious lesions present means that diagnosis of enamel and dentine caries should also be made. Although, systemic conditions such as diabetes can have an impact on this, a number of other factors discussed earlier also play an important role in the development of caries and gingival diseases. The white areas on the labial surfaces of the upper anterior and canine indicate white spot lesions, as they appear chalky when air dried. I will also diagnose halitosis, which may be due to gingivitis, or the presence of systemic conditions such as diabetes. It is important to make correct diagnosis and confirm further using additional tools and strategies as it provides a means of preparing an appropriate oral health care plan to best suit the patients’

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