Did you know that most people with high blood pressure do not feel any symptoms? That is one of the reasons why high blood pressure (also known as hypertension) is often called the silent killer. Only when your blood pressure is already dangerously high with readings of 200/140 or higher will you start to have symptoms such as headaches, dizziness and nausea. Lives can be saved with regular blood pressure monitoring that spots trouble early. The American Dental Association has added blood pressure readings to the protocol for regular dental checkups. When you see the dentist in DuPont every six months, do not be surprised when your visit starts with a blood pressure cuff.
What Do Blood Pressure Numbers Mean?
You probably know that blood pressure readings have top and bottom numbers. But do you know what they represent? The top number (systolic reading) represents the amount of blood flow pushing against vessel walls when your heart muscles contract to pump blood through your body. A systolic number that is higher than 140 indicates high blood pressure.
The bottom number (diastolic reading) represents the pressure on vessel walls in between heartbeats when the muscles are not contracting. This number should be less than 99; otherwise you may have diastolic hypertension.
The Importance of Monitoring Your Blood Pressure
Because symptoms of hypertension may not be noticeable until the condition is life threatening, having regular blood pressure readings could add years to your life. Untreated hypertension has been linked to heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure and even death. That is why dentists now routinely take patients’ blood pressure at the start of each dental checkup or any other service.
If your family dentist in DuPont finds that your blood pressure is high, then you will be sent to see your physician for further evaluation. There are medications to help control blood pressure. These work by dilating blood vessels so blood can more freely flow, which lowers blood pressure.
Some of the factors that contribute to hypertension are:
- Being overweight
- Lack of exercise
- Stress
- Smoking
- Sleep apnea
What is the Connection between Blood Pressure and Dental Work?
If you need to have dental work that requires a local anesthetic, then your dentist will want to know your blood pressure and whether or not you are on medication. Some blood pressure medications can cause there to be more bleeding during certain procedures if an anesthetic is used.
Also, high blood pressure is a symptom of sleep apnea. If not treated, sleep apnea can be fatal, in part because high blood pressure is known to be linked to heart disease. A dentist in DuPont can treat sleep apnea with an oral appliance.
A good dentist will be fully dedicated to your oral and general health. Call to schedule a dental checkup that includes blood pressure monitoring.
Say Hello to Dupont Family Dentistry
At Dupont Family Dentistry, our team works hard to provide all of the services our patients need to have a healthy mouth and a beautiful smile at every age. If you need to schedule a checkup or any other kind of treatment, make an appointment today with your family dentist in DuPont.