Dental work

No Problem for My Regular Visits

by Shaun - 2017-07-09 08:29:32

The only restriction initially was that my dentist refused to use her ultrasonic cleaner, but following a letter from my pacemaker clinic even that restriction was lifted.

Let your dentist know you have a pacemaker and they should know which procedures may be an issue.

dentist

by Tracey_E - 2017-07-09 09:17:17

A long long time ago, they had us premedicate with antibiotics, but both AMA and ADA have reversed their decision on that so it's no longer necessary. There are a still a few dentists out there who bring it up. If you have one of those, push back. 

More recently they were cautious with the cavitron. Some dentists used it but were careful not to get the cable near us, some would not use it. The latest generation of pacers is perfectly safe to use it. 

My dentist was uncomfortable doing nitrous in the office. He didn't say no, and I didn't really want it anyway so I did not pursue.

Your dentist should ask about meds. You'd be amazed how many meds affect your mouth! Paced or not, that's advice for everyone. 

I had sooo much dental work

by Jax - 2017-07-09 13:59:41

Aside from cleanings I had implants and also a sinus lift.  PM did not affect anything. The only things that I had to do was to stop my baby aspirin.  I would certainly let the dds know you have a pm and what meds you are on but I've had no problem. 

Go to the dentist--it's good for your teeth and your heart

by Gotrhythm - 2017-07-12 11:32:27

Duing the five years since I got my pacemaker, I've been a mafor contributor to my dentist's kids college tuition. I"ve had the usual cavities filed and lots of crowns.

Once, at the dentist, I did have general anesthesia, administered by a liscenced anesthesitist, not the dentist--but that was because of the dangers of anesthesia generally, irrespecitve of the pacemaker.

The only difference a pacemaker/heart condition has made is that I now go for cleanings every four months instead of every six. There is a strong connection between heart disease and gum disease, and I wish to do all I can to reduce the overall inflammation load in my body. The hygienist uses the cavitron with no ill effects, and goodness knows, I prefer it to the scraping.