Dental Office Blood Pressure Screening Miami, FL
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 South Florida Dentistry in Miami and the surrounding area. We can discuss the importance of checking blood pressure and how it affects your overall health. Call us at (305) 203-4097 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.”
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure (HBP), often called hypertension, occurs when the pressure of blood against artery walls is consistently high. HBP increases the heart's workload, causing damage to the delicate tissues of the arteries. According to the CDC, "High blood pressure increases the risk for heart disease and stroke, two leading causes of death for Americans," affecting tens of millions of adults in the United States. Unmanaged HBP can lead to stroke, heart attack, heart failure, vision loss, kidney disease, and sexual dysfunction.
Dental treatments often, if not always, involve at least a minimal amount of stress incurred by local anesthesia and drilling. Blood pressure typically rises during dental procedures in an average person but can be life-threatening to patients with HBP as it increases their risk of a heart attack or stroke. At the same time, oral conditions, such as cavities, may be the cause of their HBP. The treatment can help reduce their symptoms and future readings.
“Unmanaged HBP can lead to stroke, heart attack, heart failure, vision loss, kidney disease, and sexual dysfunction.”
Blood Pressure Testing and Treatment
If a patient has abnormal blood pressure, the dentist may retest several times. Some patients experience a condition known as "white coat hypertension." This condition can cause temporary blood pressure spikes when patients are nervous or anxious. Doctor and dentist visits may trigger anxiety.
If the patient feels anxious, the dental team takes steps to help them calm down. Then the team retests the patient's blood pressure. If the readings are still abnormal, the dentist may recommend further testing. The patient may need to seek care from a medical doctor.
General dentistry provides supportive care and regular checkups. Patients with blood pressure disorders are at a higher risk of dental problems. They may need frequent cleanings and preventive treatments. The dentist can help patients avoid complications due to high or low blood pressure.
A skilled general dentist also takes blood pressure disorders into account when developing a treatment plan. The patient may need to avoid certain medications or dental procedures. Our team offers customized treatment recommendations based on their health risks.
“General dentistry provides supportive care and regular checkups.”
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Ineligible Patients
In most cases, we will reject treating patients with a blood pressure of 180/110 mm Hg or higher to eliminate any potential risks. Patients can also be ineligible for treatment if their primary health care provider sets limits on dental procedures or certain medications with side effects that affect blood pressure. If a patient's blood pressure is not too low or too high, we will monitor their vitals throughout treatment and stop immediately if pressure drops or rises.
Local anesthesia contains epinephrine, which helps prolong the numbing effect. Epinephrine can constrict blood vessels, which in turn can elevate blood pressure. We may adjust the type of anesthesia and dosage we use in patients with high blood pressure.
“Epinephrine can constrict blood vessels, which in turn can elevate blood pressure.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. How does high blood pressure affect dental treatment?
Q. What are the benefits of complete health dentistry?
Q. What happens if the patient’s blood pressure screening reveals abnormal results?
Q. Does the practice do treatment referrals?
People Also Ask
Q. How do preexisting conditions affect dental care?
Q. Beyond regular checkups, what additional procedures might a dentist recommend?
Q. What are the health risks associated with broken teeth?
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 305-203-4097 to set up an appointment or ask us during your next visit.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
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