Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

What is the best course of action for a poorly controlled diabetic patient with caries and unhealthy gums?

1. Begin treatment immediately

2. Consult with a physician before dental treatment

3. Prescribe antibiotics before the procedure

4. Refer to a periodontist directly

The correct answer is: Consult with a physician before dental treatment

Consulting with a physician before proceeding with dental treatment for a poorly controlled diabetic patient is essential. Diabetes can significantly impact a patient's healing capacity, immune response, and susceptibility to infections. Since the patient has both caries and unhealthy gums, any dental procedures may pose additional risks if their diabetes is not well-managed. Collaboration with a physician allows for the evaluation of the diabetic patient's overall health status, including blood glucose levels and any diabetes management plans. This communication ensures that the dental professional is informed about the patient’s condition and can make informed decisions about the timing and type of dental care to provide. It also offers an opportunity to coordinate better management of the patient’s diabetes, ensuring that any treatment provided aligns with their medical needs. The other options, while they may have their place in certain contexts, do not address the immediate need to ensure that the patient's diabetes is adequately controlled before dental treatment. Starting treatment immediately could lead to complications, prescribing antibiotics might not be necessary without a confirmed infection, and a direct referral to a periodontist may not be the best first step without considering the patient's systemic condition.