Medical History Mysteries: A St. Paddy’s Day toast to alcohol consumption and dental appointments

March 3, 2021
Drs. Tom Viola and Pamela Maragliano-Muniz discuss what you need to be aware of when treating patients who consume alcohol.

This is a time when patients may be consuming alcohol to celebrate, and yet many are unaware of its serious effects on oral and systemic health. From a pharmacology aspect, alcohol can be hazardous, particularly when we don’t plan for it during dental treatment.

In this Medical History Mysteries, Drs. Tom Viola and Pamela Maragliano-Muniz discuss how alcohol influences platelets and liver enzymes, as well as what to be aware of when using analgesics and anesthetics in dentistry.

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Editor's note: Originally posted in 2021 and updated regularly

About the Author

Pamela Maragliano-Muniz, DMD

Pamela Maragliano-Muniz, DMD, is the chief editor of DentistryIQ and editorial co-director 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].

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Pamela Maragliano-Muniz, DMD, named chief editor of DentistryIQ