Just breathe! Why asthma matters to the dental hygienist.

The article explains the need for dental hygienists to understand asthma as a disease and its treatment in order to provide safe and proper care for their patients. It explores the etiology, pathophysiology and pharmacologic management of asthma. It recognizes the possibility of patients getting exposed to the triggers of an asthma attack during a dental hygiene appointment which may include aerosols, water and pathogens from the use of high-speed equipment and stress.