We’re glad you asked, because patients with heart disease do have special needs when it comes to oral health care. It’s important to let Dr. Stone know if you’ve recently had heart surgery or have a heart condition so he can treat you accordingly.
Gum disease is a bacterial infection that can affect your overall health. Whenever there is any bleeding in your mouth, bacteria has a chance to enter the bloodstream and travel to the heart.
Studies suggest that gum disease permits these bacteria to enter your bloodstream and attach to fatty deposits in the blood vessels of your heart. When this occurs, you may be at risk for developing blood clots that can eventually lead to heart attacks.
To counteract this, Dr. Stone may prescribe antibiotics prior to treatment, especially for procedures like professional dental cleanings, tooth extraction, and some oral surgeries. However, before making any decisions, Dr. Stone will consult with your physician or cardiologist to determine which antibiotics are most appropriate for you.