Blood Pressure Screening | Dental Technology

Medical history

Prior treatments and surgeries

Underlying health conditions

Current blood pressure readings

DENTAL TECHNOLOGY IN PHOENIX

Dental Office Blood Pressure Screening

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 Happy Valley Dental Studio in Phoenix and the surrounding area. We can discuss the importance of checking blood pressure and how it affects your overall health.

Low Blood Pressure

In most cases, screening results revealing low blood pressure do not affect many dental procedures. In the case of significantly low screenings, we may ask the patient to drink water and a sweet beverage or fruit to raise their blood pressure or reschedule for another visit. Low blood pressure is only alarming if a patient is experiencing dizziness or fatigue as local anesthesia and drilling can add too much stress and lead to variable results.

High Blood Pressure

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.

A Healthcare Worker Measuring a Patient's Blood Pressure Using a Sphygmomanometer

BLOOD PRESSURE TEST IN PHOENIX

FAQ's About Dental Office Blood Pressure Screening

What are the main causes of high blood pressure?
Since HBP and hypertension vary dramatically from patient to patient, the general causes of it remain unknown. However, factors such as inactivity, poor nutrition, obesity, older age, genetics, health conditions, and medications play a significant role. Blood pressure increases with age and is almost inevitable; it is important to notice it and learn how to manage it as soon as possible.
What health problems are associated with blood pressure?
Several serious health conditions affect and are affected by blood pressure including, but not limited to: Atherosclerosis, a buildup of plaque in the blood vessels; heart disease and heart failure; kidney disease; stroke; and eye disease. High blood pressure can also increase risks of underlying health problems. Therefore, managing your blood pressure helps reduce symptoms of other health conditions while also avoiding the potential risks of HBP.
What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?
Patients with consistently high blood pressure often experience strong headaches, chest pain, difficulty breathing, fatigue, irregular heartbeat, nosebleeds, blood in urine, and low exercise tolerance. Severe hypertension or prolonged lack of treatment can lead to heart attacks, heart failure, and stroke.
How can I treat high blood pressure at home?
As HBP is linked to obesity and lack of exercise or nutrition, it is a good idea to incorporate safe exercises and proper nutrition in order to lose weight. Smoking also largely affects the heart and blood vessels, so quitting is highly recommended to reduce symptoms. Lastly, excessive alcohol and salt consumption are considered triggers for HBP; it is important to limit their consumption to alleviate symptoms.
What are the side effects of high blood pressure medication?
There are many types of blood pressure medications and their side effects may vary. Common side effects include weakness, headaches, fatigue, constipation, ankle swelling, diarrhea, low potassium levels, low sexual ability, and weight gain. This is an important discussion to have with your doctor as many symptoms lead to other complications or may worsen a condition you have.