The Reason Your Dental Office Takes Your Blood Pressure

Your First Line of Defense

Did you know your dental professional plays an important role in your overall health? Since many people see their dentist more often each year than their general doctor, your dentist can provide a first line of defense by screening for diseases that affect not only your dental health but your general health as well. A staggering 80 million people have some type of cardiovascular disease, and also noteworthy, a significant number of these people are unaware of their disease.

Facts From the American Heart Association

According to the American Heart Association, hypertension (blood pressure classified as 140/90
mmHg or above) is the most common primary diagnosis in the United States, affecting nearly
one out of every three Americans, and it is still the leading cause of death in the United States
(AHA, 2008). Hypertension is a major risk factor associated with many cardiovascular diseases
and plays a significant role in the progression of congestive heart failure, stroke, heart attacks,
kidney failure, and premature death.

Because hypertension has become a prevalent concomitant condition, the American Dental
Association (ADA) recommends that all dental care providers need to be involved in the
detection and management of hypertension.

https://www.adctoday.com/sites/default/files/literature/9000_Whitepaper_0002.pdf

Early Detection

As with any condition, the earlier it is discovered, the better. At C R Dental Group it is the standard of care to assess and record a patient’s blood pressure to check for hypertension. It allows the doctor to choose the appropriate anesthetic for dental injections and aids the hygienist in stress reduction protocols. It also warns if a procedure should be postponed altogether. Dr. James Reisman and Dr. Jordana Contrucci are committed to your overall health and take very seriously their role in your safety and well-being. They remind you of the importance of informing your dental office of any changes in your health history so that you can have the safest experience possible.