Reducing DNBI with Proper Wisdom Tooth Diagnosis
Abstract
Wisdom teeth account for the second most common Dental-DNBI in a deployed setting. This problem has been observed by physicians and dentists alike. Medical staff at a Role II facility documented treatment needs in Iraq from 2003 to 2004. Over nine months they evaluated 4831 patients and found that 925 (19%) had dental needs. The most common dental procedures performed were 47% restorations (fillings) followed by 21% extractions (oral surgery). Murray concluded that predeployment dental screening must improve to minimize dental emergencies. Dental-DNBI may be prevented before Soldiers deploy if we improve diagnosis. This study proposes evidence-based clinical findings to diagnose third molars as Dental Readiness Classification (DRC) 3 and reduce provider subjectivity. Uniform diagnosis will benefit the individual patient and their unit by reducing time lost from work. This can also yield savings in the cost of care as measured by Dental Weighted Values (DWV). Improved diagnosis and predeployment treatment could minimize the burden Dental-DNBI pose in an austere AO.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2021
- Accession Number
- AD1183054
Entities
People
- Andres M. Mendoza
Organizations
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences