People with heart valve disease are often worried about having a tooth out or a scale and polish. Knowing how to prepare makes dental care safer.
- People with heart valve disease should tell the dentist about their heart condition and medicines.
- Some cases may be advised preventive antibiotics by the cardiologist, so never buy or stop medicines on your own.
- A clean mouth and early treatment of decay and gum inflammation help lower the risk.
- Bring your prescriptions and latest heart records to the visit.
The mouth contains a great many bacteria. In people with heart valve disease, some dental procedures can let bacteria enter the blood briefly, so careful preparation matters. The most important thing is to tell the dentist about your heart condition and speak with your cardiologist when needed.
What to tell the dentist
- The type of valve disease, and whether you have had a valve replaced or repaired.
- Whether you have ever had infective endocarditis.
- The medicines you take, especially anticoagulants or blood thinners, see what to know about tooth extraction on blood thinners.
- Other conditions such as blood pressure or diabetes, see tooth extraction in people with heart disease and diabetes.
Do you need preventive antibiotics?
In some cases, such as people with an artificial heart valve or a past episode of infective endocarditis, the cardiologist may advise taking antibiotics before certain dental procedures. The decision depends on the person. Do not buy or stop medicines on your own, ask your cardiologist and dentist before your visit.
Keeping the mouth clean lowers the risk
- Brush twice a day and clean between teeth with floss.
- Treat decay and gum inflammation early, see whether gum disease can be treated.
- Have regular check ups to catch problems early.
What to prepare on the day
- Bring your prescriptions and your most recent heart records.
- Take your heart medicines as directed by your doctor and do not stop them on your own.
- Tell the dentist at once if you feel a racing heart, shortness of breath or chest tightness during treatment, see also dental visits for people with heart stents.
When should you visit Ky Hoa Dental Clinic?
Nha Khoa Ky Hoa is at 266A - 268, 3 Thang 2 Street, Hoa Hung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. You can walk in during opening hours, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 to ask about quieter times first, and bring your heart records so the dentist can advise you properly.
Frequently asked questions
Can people with heart valve disease have a tooth extracted?
Usually yes with careful preparation. Tell the dentist about your heart condition and medicines, and speak with your cardiologist before the extraction.
Do I need antibiotics before an extraction if I have heart valve disease?
Some cases, such as an artificial valve or past infective endocarditis, may need them. The decision depends on the person, so ask your cardiologist and do not take medicine on your own.
What can I do to lower the risk to my heart from dental problems?
Keep the mouth clean, treat decay and gum inflammation early and attend regular check ups.