Why You Should Always Tell Your Dentist about Your Heart Condition
I may not be a cardiologist, but sharing your cardiac history with me could just spare your life.
In some cases, dental patients with certain heart abnormalities may want to undergo a course of antibiotics before receiving any type of dental care. Even simple procedures such as teeth cleaning can cause bacteria to be released into the bloodstream through the gums. These bacteria can settle in the heart and cause an infection called sub-acute bacterial endocarditis (that's SBE for the rest of us). While this is a serious and sometimes life-threatening condition, patients can avoid it entirely if properly pre-medicated.
Certain syndromes carry a particularly high risk of heart abnormalities. For instance, Down syndrome patients are likely to require antibiotics before dental treatment; this is because 40-50% are born with cardiac anomalies, and many more develop a heart condition known as mitral valve prolapse as they reach adulthood. This condition can easily go undetected as it typically requires an echocardiogram to diagnose.
In addition to Down syndrome, other patients suffering from other conditions may be considered "high risk" and require a pre-treatment antibiotic regimen. If you're suffering from a heart condition, your medical doctor can advise you on the best course of action. It is critical to inform our office when you schedule an appointment so that we can take the proper precautions.
New guidelines suggest those with heart problems probably don't need antibiotics before dental work, but it's still essential that you tell us about any cardiac issues you might have. Undergoing a course of antibiotics can be a nuisance, but it should not prevent you from receiving oral health care. Several studies have linked tooth decay with heart disease and stroke, so it's important for those with potential health problems to receive preventive treatment.
If you're concerned that you have a condition that could lead to SBE, please do not hesitate to discuss it with our office at (480)994-5225 or by sending an email to 123@2dentists4u.com today. We take your health and well-being very seriously.