When a patient with a bleeding disorder needs dental work: How you can work with the dentist to prevent a crisis

Patients with bleeding disorders need close cooperation between their physician and their dental practitioner to receive safe, comprehensive dental care. When indicated, physicians must advise a compromised treatment plan to avoid deep injections or surgical procedures that may initiate a bleeding crisis in patients at risk. The conditions most commonly seen that require special consideration are long-term use of anti-thrombotic agents, platelet dysfunction caused by chronic renal failure, and congenital clotting factor deficiencies. Even these patients may undergo a high-risk procedure, such as periodontal surgery, with adequate precautions and preparation.