Current practices and attitudes of dental practitioners regarding the provision of dental treatment for patients with solid organ transplants

Abstract

ABSTRACTBackgroundSolid organ transplant provides a lifeline for people with end stage organ failure. Each year the number of individuals in receipt of a solid organ transplant is increasing. Prevention of post‐transplant sepsis and infection are critical for transplant success. The oral cavity contains more than 700 different species of bacteria and is a potential reservoir for disease causing pathogens. Prior to undergoing solid organ transplant, individuals must receive a certification of dental health from a dental practitioner. There are currently no guidelines or protocols for dental practitioners to follow when certifying a patient as dentally fit. This allows for a wide variation of the term ‘dentally fit’. This survey was conducted as part of a larger study assessing the oral health of adults with cystic fibrosis ongoing in Cork University Dental School and Hospital. The aim of the study was to ascertain current practices and attitudes of dental practitioners regarding the provision of dental treatment pre and post solid organ transplantation.MethodsAn anonymous cross sectional survey of dental practitioners in Ireland was conducted.ResultsThe data collected showed a wide variation in the provision of treatment for patient undergoing or in receipt of a solid organ transplant.ConclusionIt demonstrates a need for further research to be conducted to ascertain the full impact solid organ transplant has on oral health, so that guidelines can be developed to aid both dental and medical professionals in the treatment of this vulnerable cohort.