It can be surprising for some patients when they sit down in the dentist’s chair for their procedure and their provider pulls out a blood pressure cuff. Although you’ve probably learned to expect this at doctor’s appointments, it may feel out of place in this setting. If you find yourself wondering why it’s necessary, you’re not alone! Many patients have asked, and so your dentist has put together the following information to help explain why it’s necessary. Keep reading to learn more!
Why Does My Dentist Take My Blood Pressure?
In general, your blood pressure says a lot about your overall health at the time of your visit. By taking it each time you come in, your dentist establishes a baseline of what is normal and healthy for you. If they notice fluctuations in the measurements, it could indicate that there’s been a medical change since your last visit. Paying attention to this can help them identify potential issues so they can update your treatment if necessary.
For example, if you’ve arrived for your procedure and your blood pressure is high, your provider may need to modify the type or amount of sedation they plan to use. The medication can constrict your blood vessels which elevates your blood pressure. If it’s too high to begin with, they may not be able to continue with the planned treatment until the underlying cause is addressed.
Can Dental Problems Cause High Blood Pressure?
In some cases, oral issues can contribute to changes in blood pressure. Gum disease, for instance, can enter your bloodstream and contribute to systemic issues like cardiovascular disease which does impact it. Also, if you have a painfully decayed tooth that needs to be extracted, you’ll experience a drop in blood pressure once it’s removed.
Your dentist will gather this information before starting work on your teeth to ensure that you stay safe throughout your visit. They don’t want to risk your overall health or put you in a dangerous situation.
What Blood Pressure is Too High for Dentistry?
While it can depend to a degree, typically high blood pressure is considered to be 140/90 or above. Because all bodies are different, your dentist needs to know what’s normal for you. If your systolic number (the top number) is greater than 140 or if your diastolic measurement (the bottom number) is greater than 90, then you may have high blood pressure regardless of the other number’s reading.
By tracking your blood pressure consistently, your dentist can ensure that your body is healthy enough to undergo the planned treatment on the day of your appointment.
About the Practice
At South Ridge Dental, families benefit from two experts who provide a full range of services under one roof. They go above and beyond to deliver individualized treatments to proactively improve your oral health and prevent dental problems. Using state-of-the-art technology, they can quickly identify any areas of concern to provide effective, long-lasting solutions. Plus, their compassionate staff makes every effort to help patients of all ages feel welcomed and comfortable throughout their visit. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, you’re welcome to request one on the website or by calling (402) 423-1616.