Why do you need to let us know if you have high blood pressure? Research shows that some drugs used for treating high blood pressure (anti-hypertensive medicines) can cause dry mouth or change your sense of taste. Some medications may make you more likely to faint when you are raised from the flat position in our dental chair to a sitting or standing position quickly.
Another possible side effect of blood pressure medication is gum overgrowth. The overgrowth can begin as soon as one month after you start drug therapy. Some people’s gums become so large that they have difficulty chewing and require surgery to remove part of the overgrown gum tissue.
If you have high blood pressure, we can check your blood pressure at each visit. Dr. Petrusha will discuss with you how high your blood pressure is, how well you have the pressure controlled and whether you have other medical conditions. We want to know if your blood pressure changes in response to any oral treatment or medications.
Most patients with high blood pressure can safely take anti-anxiety drugs such as nitrous oxide or diazepam (Valium) for dental procedures as well as local anesthetics even if they contain epinephrine. If you have concerns about these drugs, talk to Dr. Petrusha or our team.
Remember, we need to know which drugs you are taking for your high blood pressure. Before your dental visit, please take your medicines as you normally do and update your health records with any changes.
We care about your overall health!