Why Does Your Dentist Take Your Blood Pressure?
Visiting your dentist regularly for checkups is vital to keep your teeth and gums healthy. During your checkup, your dentist will carry out a thorough inspection of your mouth. They will also usually take your blood pressure. This part of the checkup is surprising to many people. After all, how is your blood pressure relevant to the health of your teeth? Here, we’ll explain why dentists take a blood pressure reading at the start of your dental appointment and why it is important that they do.
Check Eligibility Before Procedures
One of the main reasons that your dentist takes your blood pressure during your visit is to check your eligibility for procedures.
If you have a planned dental procedure, it’s vital that your dentist makes every effort to ensure it is safe for you to proceed. Taking your blood pressure plays a vital role in this.
Having high blood pressure can increase the risks involved in many medical procedures. This includes certain dental treatments. Elevated blood pressure can be an indication of serious medical issues, for example, strokes. So, if your dentist notices that your blood pressure is high, they may delay or cancel the procedure for your own safety.
Detect Hidden Medical Issues
When was the last time you had an appointment with your primary care provider? Many people visit their dentist far more frequently than their primary care provider. So, your bi-annual dental checkup provides the perfect opportunity to have your blood pressure checked.
High blood pressure can be a sign of many serious health conditions. However, the signs of high blood pressure aren’t always obvious. Most people only realize they have high blood pressure after having their blood pressure taken.
Knowing your blood pressure reading can provide peace of mind if it is normal. If it is elevated, it provides you with the information you need to gain further medical checks and take action to avoid serious health concerns.
Ensure Correct Anesthesia is Administered
Anesthesia is used for some dental procedures. Using anesthesia, numbing medication, or sedation is an excellent way to keep you feeling calm, comfortable, and pain-free during certain dental treatments.
It is essential for your dentist to monitor your blood pressure to ensure that the correct anesthesia and the right dose are used throughout your procedure. By checking your blood pressure, your dentist will ensure all treatments are carried out safely and that you’re kept completely comfortable and numb throughout.
Protect Your Family’s Health with Regular Dental Checkups
Carrying out blood pressure checks is just one of the ways that our dentists at White Oak Dental protect your family’s health.
As a premier dentist in Ooltewah, TN, White Oak Dental is proud to offer high quality dental care for you and your family. Regular dental checkups are critical to keeping your family healthy, and you can depend on us to take the best care of your family’s dental health. Click here to schedule a dental checkup for your family today.