Are you on medication for hypertension? If so, you may not recognize that there could be a link between high blood pressure and the need to protect your dental implants. The good news is that you, of course, are doing the best thing you can by managing your blood pressure. Even better news? We can certainly provide you with helpful information regarding what to expect from the meds you’re taking and how to ensure they don’t get in the way of your implant success. Let’s get started!
Hypertension Meds Cause Side Effects
Before we delve into the details of how hypertension medication can affect your dental implants, let’s work our way through the common side effects first. The problem most frequently reported as it relates to your oral health and implants: Dry mouth. Sure, it just sounds like something that’s taken care of with a sip of water but it can be a bit more serious than that. Unfortunately, it means your body isn’t making enough saliva, so your mouth is dry. Dry tissues end up with an overpopulation of bacteria.
Why Side Effects Matter
Now you know you’ve got too much bacteria in your mouth if you are, in fact, dealing with dry mouth from your high blood pressure medication. Too much bacteria means a greater chance of inflamed gum tissue, decay, and peri-implantitis (which leads to dental implant failure as the gum tissue surrounding implants becomes swollen and infected). Of course, you may also end up with bad breath and decayed teeth on top of it!
How To Improve The Problem
Always keep an open line of communication with your doctor, so you can do your best to protect your overall health and switch to a different drug when possible. You should also keep up with dental checkups, so you can receive the expert care you need to manage unavoidable dry mouth.
Remain Mindful Of Protecting Dental Implants
By speaking with us, your doctor, and your general dentist, you will be able to keep your mouth and implants in excellent condition. Schedule the time you need in Santa Rosa, CA by calling Santa Rosa Oral Surgery at 707-545-4625 to schedule your visit today.
