Impact:

High blood pressure is a very common ailment these days. As per a study done in 2014 on hypertension, about 33% of urban and 25% of rural Indians have hypertension. A very low percentage of these people

are aware of their condition, and even lower are getting treated for the same. It is a lifestyle disorder which is asymptomatic and thus also called as a ‘silent killer’. To understand how hypertension is linked with oral health, there are two aspects to it. First is how the drugs taken to control high blood pressure may cause some oral condition. Second, it is very important to be aware of such a condition if one has it, as it may interfere with a dental treatment and may cause complications if the dentist is not aware of it. A dentist has to manage people with high blood pressure differently to avoid any complications.

Special care - Some tips:

Some medication taken to treat high blood pressure may cause dry mouth, also called xerostomia. Xerostomia can cause gingivitis, periodontitis and an altered sense of taste. If left untreated for long, it may lead to plaque formation, also increasing risk of dental caries. So, one should be aware of such condition and the effects medication may have, so that care is sought in time. In addition, people with high blood pressure should inform their dentist about their condition on each visit. They should get their blood pressure level checked upon every visit. Depending on how high the blood pressure level is, and whether it is controlled or uncontrolled, a dentist may take a call on the treatment or procedure to be done.