Dental implants are the best modern method to replace missing teeth, but people with certain medical conditions, like heart disease, may wonder whether disqualifies them from treatment.
Having heart disease does not automatically rule you out, but careful planning and communication between your dentist and medical team are important.
Your Heart Condition Matters
“Heart disease” encompasses many different conditions, and the risks associated with dental implant surgery can vary depending on your specific diagnosis. Your dentist may want to know about your medical history, medications, previous procedures, and how well your condition is controlled.
People with stable heart conditions may be able to undergo dental implant treatment with appropriate precautions. However, if you have a serious or unstable cardiac condition, your dentist may recommend postponing elective dental implant surgery until your health is better controlled.
Your Medications May Affect Treatment
Some medications commonly prescribed for heart conditions can affect dental procedures. For example, blood-thinning medications can increase bleeding during surgery. You should never stop taking these medications on your own to prepare for dental implant treatment.
Instead, your dentist and physician can determine whether any changes are necessary. In many situations, dental treatment can be coordinated without stopping important heart medications.
What About Infection?
Dental implant surgery involves placing an implant into the jawbone, so preventing and managing infection is an important part of treatment. Certain people with specific heart conditions may be at increased risk of infective endocarditis, a potentially serious infection involving the heart’s inner lining or valves.
Antibiotic prophylaxis before certain dental procedures is recommended only for people with particular high-risk cardiac conditions. Your dentist and cardiologist can determine whether you fall into a group that should receive antibiotics before implant surgery.
Can Implants Improve Heart Health?
While dental implants are an oral procedure, they can actually benefit your overall health, and, yes, the health of your heart!
Implants can lessen the risk of infection or irritation of the gums that can result from poorly fitting dentures or gaps left by missing teeth. Healthy gums means your body is less prone to chronic inflammation associated with gum disease, a known contributor to cardiovascular problems.
See how the whole body is connected in terms of well-being? Oral health contributes to heart health and vice versa.
A Thorough Evaluation is Important
Before proceeding with dental implants, your dentist may perform a comprehensive examination and review your medical history. Depending on your circumstances, they may also communicate with your cardiologist or other healthcare provider.
This collaboration can help your dental team understand your cardiac condition and develop a treatment plan that takes your overall health into account.
Heart disease doesn’t necessarily prevent you from getting dental implants. The key is determining whether your specific condition is stable enough for elective dental surgery and identifying any precautions that may be necessary. Your dental and medical professionals can work together to determine whether implants are appropriate and how to make treatment as safe as possible.
About the Practice
If you’re one of the approximately 180 million Americans missing at least one tooth, Epic Family Dentistry of Carrollton can perform the entire dental implant treatment under one roof! We offer free consultations with Dr. Azmoodeh and Dr. Cao and are in-network with all PPO dental insurance providers. Book your appointment online or call our Carrollton, TX office at (972) 820-7294.