Asthma, diabetes and hypertension: diseases and medical histories.

Virtually all dental offices are asked to treat patients with underlying medical concerns. Because of their high prevalence in our society, we are obligated to have some familiarity with asthma, diabetes, and hypertension. Dental treatment can affect or be affected by these diseases. Our mandate as health care professionals to "do no harm" dictates that we must be prepared to properly assess all patients in determining how, and if, they may be treated safely. Good medical histories and physical examinations are the only ways to do this. When faced with a medically compromised patient, the following recommendations apply: Have a working knowledge of the disease. Prepare your facility for a crisis. Consider your reasonable prevention protocols and use them as appropriate. Avoid known triggers. Plan to lower stress.