There are many legal issues, however, that are developing because of this new technology. From the discussion, the authors conclude that medicine and dentistry need to resolve several concerns before realizing the potential benefits of telemedicine and teledentistry. All dental providers should educate themselves as to the legal, technological and ethical issues of teledentistry using it. Atherosclerotic coronary artery disease is a significant health issue in the United States. The use of stents can reduce the complications of angioplasty.
Stents are expandable metal scaffolds that physically open and support closed or blocked arteries.
Seven types of stents have been approved for use in the United States. The majority are balloon-expandable, mounted on an angioplasty balloon catheter, and delivered with or without a protective sheath. Prior to treating patients who have coronary artery stents, dental providers should consult with the patient's physician to obtain specific details of cardiac history and present status. Dental health care providers should also consider the use of prophylactic antibiotics for bacteremia-producing dental procedures when the procedures are performed within 30 days of stent placement. This article is an excellent overview of coronary artery stents, their complications, the use of anticoagulation therapy, and management of stent patients who require dental treatment.