Liver Disease (Hepatitis) There are many different types of diseases that the dental hygienist needs to be aware of. It is important to know basic information about the disease and how the disease affects the patient's oral cavity, as well as how to treat the patient. This article will address liver disease, and more specifically, liver disease caused by hepatitis. “The term liver disease applies to many diseases and disorders that cause the liver to function improperly or stop functioning.” (United States National Library of Medicine. “Liver disease.”) A couple of signs and symptoms include fever, dark urine, abdominal pain, and jaundice, which is yellowing of the eyes and skin. (United States National Library of Medicine. “Liver disease.”)“Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver.”(”What is hepatitis?”) There are three main types of hepatitis. These include hepatitis A, B, and C. These three types of hepatitis cause the most concern to medical personnel due to their ability to spread and cause epidemics. “Hepatitis A is a contagious liver disease that results from infection with the hepatitis A virus.” (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) It can range from acute to chronic. An individual can contract hepatitis A if they eat or drink food or water contaminated with the virus. Some “common sources of vitamin A include shellfish, fruits, vegetables, ice, and water.” (United States National Library of Medicine. “Hepatitis A.”) Hepatitis B is a serious, endemic, worldwide disease that can occur at any age. (Wilkins 45) The hepatitis B virus causes hepatitis B infection. Hepatitis B is spread through contact with the blood or body fluids of an infected person. (United States National Library of Medicine. “Hepatitis B.”) Hepatitis C......center of document......diasis. (Coates 4) The dental team may suggest different types of moisture substitutes to aid saliva production. Some hydration remedies may include chewing sugarless gum, sipping water throughout the day, and/or using a saliva substitute. (Coates 4) In conclusion, it is important that dental personnel treat all patients as if they were infected. A patient may or may not choose to disclose any information about their illness or may not be aware of it. It is also important that dental staff carry out vaccinations at regular intervals. The hygienist must ensure that they protect themselves and the patient during treatment. Discrimination against someone who has a disease is illegal. With this in mind, it is the doctor's duty to be aware of the diseases he may come into contact with and how to treat the patient..