Which should be avoided in the dental management of an asthma patient?

• A. Aspirin, air polisher, and ultrasonic scaling
• B. Fluoride varnish
• C. Sealants
• D. Povidone-iodine

Answer: (A)

In dental care for someone with asthma, the goal is to avoid things that can trigger airway irritation or bronchospasm. Aspirin can provoke bronchospasm in people who are sensitive to NSAIDs, which some asthmatics have. Air polishing uses a fine powder that can be inhaled and irritate the airways, potentially triggering an attack. Ultrasonic scaling also creates aerosols, which can spread irritants and provoke coughing or wheezing. Taken together, these factors make that combination best avoided for an asthma patient. Fluoride varnish and sealants are local treatments with minimal inhalation risk, and povidone-iodine is generally safe (aside from rare iodine allergies).