Heart Conditions

A primary dental provider should be aware of all conditions, medications, and prior treatments of their patients, especially serious problems such as heart disease. According to The Academy of General Dentistry, “the most common cause of drug-related interactions is the doctor's lack of information about your medical history.” It is important to relay all medical conditions, medical history, medications, supplements, vitamins, allergies, and any adverse reactions that result from treatments. Despite oral hygiene’s positive effect on heart health, patients with heart conditions may be ineligible for certain dental procedures. Invasive treatments, such as periodontal therapy, can increase inflammation and push oral bacteria into the bloodstream, raising the risk of heart attack or stroke. If a procedure is more detrimental than the condition itself, a complete health dentist can recommend alternatives or postpone treatment until medical clearance.

Medications That Limit Treatments

Among the most common medications that can prevent dental treatment are antihypertensives. One medical guideline notes, “Emergency dental procedures should be avoided in patients with a blood pressure greater than 180/110 mmHg.” Due to the high prevalence of hypertension medications, complete health dentists recognize side effects such as dry mouth, gum overgrowth, and taste changes, which can affect oral care. Complete health dentists also understand the risks of dual‐drug interactions between medical prescriptions and medications used in dental offices. The term ‘medically compromised patient’ refers to individuals whose systemic health conditions—like heart disease, diabetes, or immunodeficiency—could complicate dental care. Without disclosing medical conditions and medications, patients risk adverse reactions or treatment failures.

Mixing Dental and Medical Prescriptions

Many harmful or even fatal reactions occur when medical and dental medications interact without providers’ knowledge. Since most drug interactions are dangerous, primary care providers and complete health dentists must collaborate on prescribing decisions. A thorough medical and drug history—covering prescription, over‐the‐counter, and herbal products—should be taken and reviewed at every dental visit. Patients must set aside personal preferences when serious conditions require medications that interfere with dental treatments. Rather than risking adverse reactions, a complete health dentist can choose alternative antibiotics, adjust dosages, or delay elective procedures until it is safe to proceed.

Altering Treatment Based on Medications

Many health conditions require medications that cannot be stopped, even temporarily, for dental care. Complete health dentists know which systemic conditions—such as coagulopathies or immunosuppression—demand treatment modifications. They can adjust non‐invasive procedures (e.g., postponing deep cleanings for a patient on bisphosphonates) or recommend minimally invasive alternatives. If a patient’s medications pose surgical risks, a complete health dentist can coordinate with the prescribing physician to modify the treatment plan, select safer drugs, or delay surgery until risks are minimized.

Frequently Asked Questions About Opening Up to Your Dentist

• Q: I don’t feel comfortable telling my dentist about my medical history or medications. Will this affect my treatment? A: Disclosing medical information is confidential and used only to create a safe, effective treatment plan. Withholding prescriptions can lead to harmful drug interactions, treatment delays, or complications.
• Q: Can I stop taking my prescription medication for a temporary dental procedure? A: In most cases, you should not stop prescribed medications without your doctor’s approval. A complete health dentist can collaborate with your physician to adjust dosages or select alternative treatments that accommodate your medical needs.
• Q: Can a dentist detect systemic health conditions by examining the mouth? A: Complete health dentists understand the oral‐systemic link. Certain medical conditions—such as diabetes or anemia—show early signs in the mouth. A diligent exam can reveal indicators of systemic disease, prompting timely medical referrals.
• Q: How can I develop trust with my dentist? A: The first visit is an opportunity to build rapport. Ask about the dentist’s experience, request thorough explanations of procedures, and share your health history transparently. Open communication ensures you receive personalized, safe care.

Dental Terminology

• • Cosmetic Dentistry: Any dental work that improves the appearance (though not necessarily function) of teeth, gums, or bite.
• • Dental Checkup: An appointment involving cleaning the teeth, identifying signs of infection, and removing plaque at least every six months.
• • Dentist: A dental surgeon who diagnoses, prevents, and treats diseases of the oral cavity.
• • Diabetes: A group of diseases affecting how the body regulates blood sugar due to insulin issues.
• • Drug Interaction: When two or more drugs react, causing unexpected or harmful side effects.
• • Heart Disease: A range of cardiovascular conditions, including coronary artery disease and structural defects.
• • Hypertension: High blood pressure, where blood exerts excessive force against vessel walls.
• • Medically Compromised Patient: A patient with an impaired health status—such as immunodeficiency, heart disease, or diabetes—that may affect dental care.
• • OTC Medications: Drugs available without a prescription.
• • Preventive Dentistry: Dentistry focused on maintaining oral health to prevent plaque, tartar, and infections.
• • Prescriptions: Medications that require a doctor’s authorization, which can affect dental treatment decisions.