Rheumatic Fever Webinar Series [1] Oral healthcare for ARF & RHD patients: updated clinical guidelines

A two‑part webinar series on rheumatic fever gives dentists an essential update on a condition that can influence clinical decision‑making. The program introduces the latest guidelines and showing how those changes affect clinical practice, from prevention to antibiotic prophylaxis. Designed to strengthen confidence and ensure alignment with current standards, the series equips dentists with the knowledge they need to manage patients safely and collaboratively.

Learning outcomes

The recently updated Aotearoa New Zealand clinical guidelines for the prevention, diagnosis, and management of Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) and Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) introduce important changes for dental professionals. This webinar will walk you through what’s new, why it matters, and how to confidently apply the guidance in everyday practice. We will explore: - Updated risk categories for ARF and RHD patients and what they mean for dental care - When antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended for dental procedures - Considerations for patients on long-term benzathine penicillin prophylaxis - Practical strategies for reducing oral infection risk and supporting lifelong prevention - Communication pathways between dental teams, primary care, and cardiology services With a focus on clinically relevant examples, this session will equip dental teams with the knowledge needed to provide safe, culturally responsive, and guideline aligned care to ARF and RHD patients.

Speaker

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