People with heart disease have special needs when it comes to dental care.
Dental Care After Heart Attack
If you have experienced a heart attack, it is important to wait 6 months before dental treatments. If you are taking anti-coagulants, please let your dentist know. Special precautions will need to be taken.
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
High blood pressure can cause a variety of oral conditions. Dry mouth from high blood pressure medications can be a complication. Your dentist can help find a solution if the dry mouth becomes a problem. Your gums can also swell or overgrow; having regular routine cleanings can help keep your gums healthy. If you have a blood pressure that is high, using anesthesia with epinephrine can cause blood pressure to elevate at dangerous levels. Your dentist will evaluate your blood pressure at each visit to determine if your blood pressure is within an acceptable range before starting any dental procedure.
Chest Pain (Angina)
If you have Angina please discuss with your dentist to manage your care in the dental clinic.
Stroke
Notify your dentist if you have had a stroke. Special care will need to be taken if you are currently taking anticoagulants. If you are on medication that has caused dry mouth, please let your dentist know. Your dentist can help find a solution if the dry mouth becomes a problem.
Make sure if you have any heart condition to establish good medical and dental health care. Your Dentist can work with your primary care provider to ensure a good overall health/dental care. Brush your teeth at least twice per day and floss at least once per day. Share with your dentist what medications you are currently taking and your medical history. This will help your dentist plan for your care. Always follow your physician and dentist’s advice on your health/dental care such as using antibiotics and other prescriptions as directed.
See your hygienist every 3-6 months for cleanings to maintain your oral health care.
Heart disease and oral health
http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/h/heart-disease-and-oral-health
