Medication use in geriatric populations: dental implications of frequently prescribed medications.

Anticipated demographic changes in the U.S. during the next 20 years will bring increasing numbers of geriatric patients into dental practices. It is expected that these patients will have multiple co-morbid medical conditions and will have to take multiple medications as a result. Dental practitioners must stay informed concerning newly marketed drugs and those commonly prescribed to geriatric patients, and the potential dental implications of those drugs. Specialized training in geriatric dentistry, continuing education, and consultation with medical and pharmacy practitioners can provide valuable tools for managing this special patient population.

Robinow syndrome, Cockayne syndrome, and Pfeiffer syndrome: an overview of physical, neurological, and oral characteristics.

The general population expects dentists to be well-versed in the typical and atypical orofacial characteristics of all potential patients. As a result, dentists must possess a reasonable amount of knowledge concerning the physical and intraoral traits associated with developmental disorders such as those associated with Robinow syndrome, Cockayne syndrome, and Pfeiffer syndrome. None of the physical, neurological, or oral anomalies discussed in this column present insurmountable barriers to providing dental care. Dental techniques and procedures performed on patients with any of these syndromes will be identical or very similar to those done on any other patient.

The Folse "Match the model" three-minute upper bite rim technique.

These techniques allow the dentist to fabricate upper bite rims that are customized to meet each individual patient's esthetic and functional needs in less than three minutes. This innovative technique for fabricating upper bite rims minimizes patient appointment time and significantly limits the number of steps involved with denture construction. As a result, the patient's ability to comply with and tolerate the procedures is greatly enhanced and a successful outcome is much more likely.