Endocrinology for Dental Students

The hormones are chemical messengers of the body diversified in structure and functions, act either directly or through messengers. Hormones are produced in small amounts by specific tissues (endocrine glands), secreted into blood stream to control the metabolic and biologic activities in the target cells. The oral health care professional can play a role in the screening of patients who have undiagnosed endocrine diseases. In addition, to treat such patients a thorough understanding of the many related pathological conditions, as well as the signs and symptoms that can occur is needed. As part of a health care team, the dentist plays an important role in detecting endocrine abnormalities. Modifications of dental care must be considered when treating such patients. Here discussing the effects of over and under-secretion of each endocrine gland separately, showing its influence on the development and maintenance of the health of the teeth and supporting structures and dental consideration during managing such patients.