In today’s blog, your Livingston dentists, Dr. David Silverstrom and Dr. Gary Silverstrom, continue to discuss the importance of heart disease prevention. Recently, the United States Department of Health and Human Services launched a campaign to prevent one million heart attacks and strokes over the next five years. Many of our patients with conditions related to heart disease don’t realize that even routine dental care may require premedication. With today’s blog, Drs. David and Gary Silverstrom explain the necessity of premedication and how to help prevent heart disease.
Talk to Your Livingston Dentists
Cardiac patients should always talk to Dr. David or Gary Silverstrom before undergoing any dental procedures. The well being of our patients is paramount, which is why Drs. David and Gary Silverstrom follow strict safety protocols. Always tell your Livingston dentists what medications you are currently taking, along with the dosages. Dr. David or Gary Silverstrom will also require the name and phone number of your cardiologist, and may request paperwork detailing the state of your heart health.
Why Premedication?
Dental procedures such as cleanings, root canals, dental implants, or tooth extractions, all elevate the level of oral bacteria in the blood stream. For most patients, this is nothing to be concerned about. But for patients with heart conditions, the presence of certain oral bacteria in the heart can lead to serious complications, including endocarditis.
Heart Conditions Requiring Premedication
The American Dental Association recommends patients with the following heart issues take antibiotic premedication before receiving dental care:
- Congenital heart defects
- Artificial heart valves
- History of infective endocarditis
- Complications resulting from a heart transplant
Prevention
Many issues requiring premedication are a result of heart disease. In America, one out of every three deaths is due to complications from cardiovascular disease. Fortunately, with a few simple steps, patients can reduce the risk of heart disease. Diet and exercise decrease blood pressure and lower cholesterol, aiding in the fight against heart disease and stroke. The oral bacteria that endanger heart patients are often the result of gum disease. Patients with gum disease experience tender, swollen gums that bleed easily, increasing the chances of oral bacteria entering the blood stream. In addition to taking premedication, patients can also protect their health by preventing gum disease. Maintain good oral hygiene. Brush twice a day, floss at least once, and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash. Proper dental habits help cleanse the mouth of bacteria and food particles. Don’t forget to attend regular checkups with your Livingston dentists. This allows Dr. David or Gary Silverstrom to check for signs of dental issues, and prescribe necessary treatment.
Schedule an Appointment with Your Livingston Dentists
To maintain optimal dental health, patients should always attend regular checkups and cleanings with their Livingston dentists. Contact The Silverstrom Group in Livingston, New Jersey by calling (973) 797-9345. The Silverstrom Group is located at 580 South Livingston Avenue, Livingston, New Jersey.
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