Dentistry and Tuberculosis

  • Estimated Time: 120 minutes
  • Credits: 2.0 CEU
  • Passing Score: 80%

Course Overview

Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the most persistent global infectious diseases and continues to pose significant challenges for healthcare systems, including dentistry. Although advances in public health have reduced its prevalence in many regions, the emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) strains has renewed worldwide concern. Dental professionals play a crucial role in recognizing the signs and symptoms of TB, understanding transmission risks within dental settings, and applying evidence-based infection control practices to safeguard both patients and staff. This comprehensive two-hour course examines tuberculosis as it relates to dental practice, covering etiology, clinical presentation, transmission, infection control measures, management of affected patients, drug therapy considerations, and occupational health guidelines. Expanded sections explore global trends, antibiotic resistance, regulatory recommendations (CDC, OSHA, WHO), and case-based applications relevant to modern dental practice. The course emphasizes prevention, early recognition, interprofessional communication, and the ethical responsibilities of dental professionals in public health.

Learning Objectives

Upon completing this course, the participant will be able to:

  • Identify the causative organism and describe the pathophysiology of tuberculosis.
  • Recognize oral and systemic signs and symptoms that may indicate active or latent TB.
  • Explain how TB is transmitted and the factors influencing its spread in dental environments.
  • Describe appropriate infection control procedures to prevent occupational exposure.
  • Discuss dental management considerations for patients with active or latent TB.
  • Interpret the significance of diagnostic methods such as TST, IGRA, and molecular assays.
  • Differentiate between drug-susceptible, multidrug-resistant (MDR), and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) TB.
  • Evaluate the dental implications of common anti-TB medications and their side effects.
  • Apply CDC, OSHA, and ADA infection control guidelines to clinical scenarios involving potential TB exposure.
  • Assess case-based examples illustrating patient screening, referral, and emergency management protocols.
  • Understand the role of dental professionals in TB prevention, early detection, and reporting to public health authorities.
  • Summarize global trends and challenges associated with TB control and emerging resistance patterns.

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