Medical History Mysteries: Depression and mental illness: It’s no laughing matter
Dr. Tom Viola and I are continuing our journey through a systems-based medical history. We’ve talked about cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and GI disorders. Now, we’re focusing on mental illness and depression.
Join us in this episode of Medical History Mysteries, where we’ll talk about what medications for mental illness and depression to be aware of, what dental implications can arise as a result, what questions to ask patients, and how informed consent comes into play. Above all, we must consider the patient’s psyche, be empathetic, and know when to listen and when to speak. Dental professionals are the most approachable members of the medical team—you can make a huge difference in your patients’ lives.
Editor’s note: This article first appeared in Through the Loupes newsletter, a publication of the Endeavor Business Media Dental Group. Read more articles and subscribe to Through the Loupes.
Pamela Maragliano-Muniz, DMD, is the chief editor of Dental Economics and editorial codirector of Through the Loupes. Based in Salem, Massachusetts, Dr. Maragliano-Muniz began her clinical career as a dental hygienist. She went on to attend Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, where she earned her doctorate in dental medicine. She then attended the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Dental Medicine, where she became board-certified in prosthodontics. Dr. Maragliano-Muniz owns a private practice, Salem Dental Arts, and lectures on a variety of clinical topics. You may contact her at [email protected].