Heart disease and dental procedures

[Heartgrl]

Hi there. Im 14 years old and I have left ventricular hypertrophy, mitral valve regurgitation and hypertension. I am currently wearing braces and my orthodontist said that I will have to get a wisdom teeth extraction surgery. Ive heard that people with heart disease and who are undergoing dental prosedures are at higher risk for developing endocarditis...Is that true? If so, should I tell my cardiologist? HWat prevaentive steps should I take?

[Heartgrl]

:-) thank you very much. i just mention it to both my cardiologist and orthodontist to see what they'll do.

[ed34]

You have raised a very interesting point. Endocarditis is caused by bacteria and in
rare cases a fungi. It tends to cause clumps to form on heart valves
but it can also affect other major organs such as the kidneys and brain. It is twice as likely to occur in males but is more common in people over 50. It is a potentially fatal condition and can be brought about by even brushing your teeth, not just dental treatment and it can even be caused by eating food. It can be treated with certain
antibiotics but needs to be caught early to prevent heart valve damage. If this occurs,
corrective surgery will be required.
You are correct in saying people with heart problems are more at risk, but if you haven't
developed it from eating or brushing your teeth then are the risks low? Dental surgeons
use sterile equipment. Have a chat with your GP and see if it would benefit you having
a course of antibiotics before the procedure. I believe however that your GP will say you
are low enough risk not to be worried. I'm sorry I can't offer any more advice than that.