People with heart problems are always on the risky side when it comes to undergoing any treatment. They must take special care and consult with their cardiologist for their expert guidance and advice.
Especially when treating gum disease, such patients must ensure that they inform the dentist about their medical history so that preventive measures are taken on time. According to researchers, periodontal disease is a gum infection that increases body inflammation, the body’s immune response. This helps to fight infection; however, a high level of inflammation may damage blood vessels causing heart problems. It increases the possibility of stroke and heart attack. That is why some dental procedures like tooth extraction and cleaning are considered risky. Also, heart problems may arise due to change in aspirin dosage that the dentist may suggest before surgery.
Here is a list of the things you must keep in mind before visiting the dentist if you suffer from the following heart problems:
Heart Attack
Dental patients who have already undergone from heart attack must ensure that they consult a cardiologist before dental treatment. If your heart doctor says to wait, then you must listen. Depending on your heart condition, you will be allowed to sit for the dental surgery.
Also, if you have blood-thinning drugs then do inform your dentist. This is because patients having those drugs may experience excessive bleeding during oral surgery. So, keeping dentists informed will ensure proper arrangement of blood if needed. Make sure oxygen and nitroglycerin are also available in the dental clinic.
Blood Pressure
There can be times when people with hypertension suffer from swelling or overgrowth of gum tissues. And in such cases, the dentist may recommend gingivectomy, a dental procedure to get rid of excess tissue. Any oral surgery may require the use of local anesthesia that contains a common additive called epinephrine. However, this additive is not good for patients having high blood pressure. It may result in an increase in BP, possibilities of heart attack and angina.
Chest Pain
It is common for patients with having chest pain issue to experience an overgrowth of gum. As a result, they may need to get gum surgery. Now, during dental operations, patients with an unpredictable pattern of chest pain are the ones to be at more risk. They may need oxygen and nitroglycerin if a medical emergency arises. These patients should try to avoid dental procedures that are nonessential. Also, their treatment should always take place in a hospital with proper cardiac monitoring equipment and facilities.
What You Must Do for a Safe Dental Care?
-
Inform your dentist about names of drugs and their dosages you are taking for heart disease if any.
-
Let your dentist speak with your cardiologist to ensure a safe procedure.
-
Consult cardiologist before stopping aspirin dosage on the dentist’s recommendation.
-
Do follow regular brushing and flossing routine to avoid the need for oral surgery.
-
Eat less of sugary items, beverages, etc.
-
Go for regular dental check-ups.