WHY YOUR CLINICAL NOTES NEED THIS INFORMATION?

CHRISTINE TAXIN ADJUNCT PROFESSOR

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

• Hypertension (i.e., high blood pressure) is one of the most common chronic cardiovascular conditions in the U.S.
• Blood pressure measurement is an important screening vital sign at dental visits.
• Antihypertensive medications may cause oral/dentofacial adverse effects.
• Although vasoconstrictors in local anesthetics are rarely contraindicated, the potential for cardiovascular stimulation (e.g., increased heart rate, increased blood pressure) following inadvertent intravascular injection may cause dental practitioners to reduce or avoid vasoconstrictor-containing formulations in individuals with cardiovascular compromise.
• If symptoms of hypertensive crisis/emergency are observed, immediate referral to emergency care may be warranted to prevent adverse sequelae such as stroke or end-organ damage.