The likelihood is that you have patients who have suffered or will suffer a stroke. Taking into account all of the physical and psychosocial changes resulting from a stroke, what do you need to know and understand to provide a stroke survivor with the best care? 

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A stroke, or cerebrovascular accident (CVA), occurs when there is an interruption of blood, oxygen, and glucose to the brain tissue. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and the second leading cause of death among older adults in the United States.  Older adults who are stroke survivors have a 50% chance of sustaining moderate to severe disabilities after the incident.  Stroke often results in loss of motor control and coordination, which, in turn, cause dysphagia and/or dysarthria. Stroke can also weaken the tongue, soft palate, pharynx and muscles of mastication. Stroke survivors may also suffer from paralysis or numbness and pains in their hands that could affect oral self-care. Obstructive sleep apnea is common after stroke and can have detrimental oral effects, such as bruxism, hypersensitivity, increased risk of periodontal disease and xerostomia-related caries. Treatment for stroke may include thrombolytic therapy, use of blood thinners and/or surgery. In addition, the use of tissue plasminogen activator therapy has increased the numbers of stroke patients who do not require post-acute care.

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During this seminar, participants will become familiar with the vocabulary utilized by the medical community when discussing the evaluation and management of the stroke patient.  Maintaining the oral health of patients who have experienced stroke is critical to supporting their systemic health.  We will spend a significant portion of the evening program discussing the dental management strategies for patients who have suffered a stroke.   Please join us as we embark on our journey to better understand the needs of our patients.