Author/Editor		Skalerič, U; Gašperšič, R; Gašpirc, B; Grošelj, D; Kovač-Kavčič, M; Petelin, M; Schara, R
Title		Napotnice za specialista ustnih bolezni in parodontologije - analiza in priporočila za splošnega stomatologa
Translated title		Referral of patients to the specialist for oral medicine and periodontology: analysis and recommendations for the general practitioner
Type		članek
Source		Zobozdrav Vestn
Vol. and No.		Letnik 57, št. 3-4
Publication year		2002
Volume		str. 107-11
Language		slo
Abstract		A total of 1882 patients (4-6 per day) were referred to the Unit of Oral Medicine and Periodontology over a period of two years, from November 1999 to November 2001. Periodontal disease accounted for 78.6% of the referrals. The remaining 21.4% of the patients suffered from various oral diseases and lesions. The patients' average age at the time of referral was 45.1 years, and nearly two thirds (64.4%) were women. The most frequent oral diseases and lesions were glossodynia, lichen planus and recurrent aphthae. The patients presenting with periodontal disease were frequently referred at an advanced stage of illness, having received no previous periodontal care from the general practitioner, and their dental records were often incomplete or even missing. The authors emphasize to need for early diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease, and the importance of maintaining accurate dental records. By following these recommendations, possible lawsuits against dentists can be avoided.
Descriptors		PERIODONTICS REFERRAL AND CONSULTATION AGE FACTORS SEX FACTORS PERIODONTAL DISEASES SURGERY, ORAL