An asthmatic patient begins wheezing after a rubber dam is placed during a dental procedure. What is the FIRST-LINE medication to administer?

The first-line treatment for an acute asthma attack in the dental office is a short-acting beta-2 agonist bronchodilator, specifically albuterol (salbutamol) administered via inhaler or nebulizer. The patient should be allowed to use their own rescue inhaler, or one from the dental office emergency kit. Supplemental oxygen should also be provided. Epinephrine is reserved for severe cases when albuterol fails to provide relief or in cases of anaphylaxis. The original answer listed epinephrine as correct, which is only appropriate as a second-line agent if bronchodilators fail.