Dental Office Blood Pressure Screening Los Angeles, CA
Complete health dentists understand the oral-systemic link and implement it throughout their practice. Accordingly, they conduct a blood pressure screening during every dental visit to ensure the body is ready for treatment. A blood pressure test can reveal much about the patient's health and well-being and may even determine whether they will undergo a dental procedure or not.
During the initial consultation appointment, a standard procedure typically involves a blood pressure check, a thorough examination of the mouth and body, a medical history review, and X-rays. By checking blood pressure every visit, we can help determine any lifestyle changes that may have a negative impact on one's health. Patient inclusion is of high priority, and we will discuss what a patient's screening means and how treatments will progress thereafter.
Information on dental blood pressure screenings is available at Vatan Dental Group in Los Angeles and the surrounding area. We can discuss the importance of checking blood pressure and how it affects your overall health. Call us at (310) 906-1300 to schedule a consultation appointment to go over how the screening may affect your dental treatment.
General Dentistry and Blood Pressure
Researchers know that the mouth is a pathway to the rest of the body. The oral-systemic link can have a profound impact on patients' health. Oral inflammation and gum disease can trigger life-threatening problems, including heart disease. Preventive care and early intervention promote improved health and longevity.
Skilled general dentists offer comprehensive checkups where they may perform a variety of health screenings. Many providers begin by measuring the patient's blood pressure.
A blood pressure reading assesses the force of blood against artery walls. If blood pressure is too low or too high, the patient might be at risk for health problems like heart attacks or strokes. Fortunately, treatment can help. Intervention can stabilize blood pressure and promote treatment success.
“Complete health dentists offer comprehensive checkups to provide holistic care.”
Understanding Blood Pressure Measurements
Most adults should have blood pressure readings between 90/60 and 120/80. If a patient's readings are too low, they may be diagnosed with hypotension. This condition can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Blurred vision
- Cool or clammy skin
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Nausea
If the patient's readings are too high, they may have hypertension. Patients with hypertension often report:
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Vision changes
Keep in mind that abnormal blood pressure does not always cause noticeable symptoms. Many patients are unaware that they have high or low blood pressure. Without treatment, these conditions can cause permanent organ damage.
Routine screenings, like those provided by a dentist, help patients detect blood pressure disorders. The sooner patients receive treatment, the better their outcomes. Treatment can improve their oral health and protect their hearts.
“Keep in mind that abnormal blood pressure does not always cause noticeable symptoms.”
Meaning Behind Results
A blood pressure screening reveals two numbers that result from two forces: the first force (systolic pressure) and the second force (diastolic pressure). The American Heart Association explains, "The first force occurs as blood pumps out of the heart and into the arteries that are part of the circulatory system. The second force is created as the heart rests between heartbeats." A normal blood pressure reading is between 120/80 mm Hg, systolic over diastolic. High blood pressure refers to a systolic number higher than 120 and the diastolic number higher than 80. Low blood pressure readings are 90/60 mm Hg and lower.
A complete health dentist takes into account the patient's medical history, prior treatments and surgeries, underlying health conditions, and current blood pressure readings to customize their dental treatment plan. This may mean referring the patient to a primary health care provider that can better help them manage their blood pressure or send them to a hospital for further scans and treatment. We take all necessary precautions to ensure every patient is safe and all dental treatments enhance their well-being without putting them at risk.
“A normal blood pressure reading is between 120/80 mm Hg, systolic over diastolic.”
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How Blood Pressure Affects Dental Care
In rare cases, a patient may enter the dentist's office with dangerously high or low blood pressure. If this occurs, the dental team can arrange for the patient to visit the hospital emergency room. The team can also decide whether to move forward with certain types of treatment.
Patients with abnormal blood pressure readings may get disqualified from certain dental procedures. In particular, anesthetics can create a spike in blood pressure. Some patients might also experience sudden drops in blood pressure after a procedure if they have been taking antihypertensive medication.
Our dental team provides constant monitoring when administering medications. We check the patient's blood pressure before and after treatment. Before discharging the patient, we make sure that their blood pressure is stable. Patient safety is our highest priority.
“Patients with abnormal blood pressure readings may get disqualified from certain dental procedures.”
Questions Answered on This Page
People Also Ask
Q. Are oral conditions primarily habitual or genetic?
Q. How can a cracked or broken tooth affect other body systems?
Q. How do preexisting conditions affect dental care?
Q. Why is the oral microbiome important to systemic health?
Q. What pre-existing conditions are affected by dental health?
Treatment Referrals
Patients with chronic blood pressure problems may be at risk for heart disease. If the patient shows signs of heart problems, the dental team may refer the patient to a cardiologist. Cardiologists specialize in disorders affecting blood pressure and circulation. A cardiologist can help patients achieve stable blood pressure.
Many patients develop blood pressure problems due to stress, anxiety, or depression. If the dentist suspects mental health concerns, they may provide a referral to a mental health care provider. These providers can help patients manage stress through therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes. Mental health care supports emotional wellbeing along with heart health.
“Many patients develop blood pressure problems due to stress, anxiety, or depression.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Blood Pressure Screenings
Q. What is a normal result during a blood pressure test?
A. Normal blood pressure readings can vary. As a rule, most adults should keep their blood pressure between 90/60 and 120/80. Some patients may have consistently abnormal readings due to a chronic health condition. A doctor can let you know what readings are normal for you.
Q. What happens if my blood pressure test results are abnormal?
A. Blood pressure can fluctuate. Patients may have low or high readings due to stress. Physical activities and medication can also affect blood pressure. If your readings are abnormal, the dentist may check your blood pressure several times. They may also refer you to a doctor for further care.
Q. What are the health risks of high blood pressure?
A. Without treatment, high blood pressure can lead to organ failure and stroke. People with uncontrolled high blood pressure are also at a higher risk for dementia. Sadly, high blood pressure often goes undetected for years. Routine blood pressure screenings can help diagnose this condition in its early stages.
Q. How is high blood pressure treated?
A. Patients with high blood pressure test results may need to take daily medication. Some patients may also need to adjust their lifestyles. Dietary changes, weight loss, and smoking cessation can help lower blood pressure. Our dental team can help patients access treatment for their high blood pressure.
Q. Does dental anesthetic affect blood pressure?
A. Anesthetics may cause a temporary spike in blood pressure. Patients who receive these medications need constant monitoring. Our dental team may perform a blood pressure screening several times during treatment involving an anesthetic. If your blood pressure spikes, we can provide on-the-spot care.
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Dental Terminology
Learn More Today
If you are interested in better understanding complete health dentistry and how blood pressure affects many dental treatments, call us at 310-906-1300 to set up an appointment or ask us during your next visit.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
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