Throughout the United States, millions of individuals must take blood thinner medication to prevent strokes, heart attacks, and to manage various types of medical conditions, such as cardiac arrhythmias. Blood thinners are effective at improving the quality of life and providing a boost to the health.

However, one major side effect associated with this type of medication is increased bleeding. If you are in need of any type of dental work, continue reading to determine if it is safe for you while taking blood thinners. 

What Is the Purpose of Blood Thinners?

The main purpose of a blood thinner medication is to help in preventing the blood from clumping together – or clotting. In normal circumstances – and when not on these medications – the clotting of the blood is a natural process.

When taking blood thinners, it is imperative to understand that any type of bleeding that occurs may be difficult to stop. This is why if you need any type of dental work performed, you should carefully consider this fact. 

If On Blood Thinners Inform the Dental Professional 

Whether you are seeing a dentist or a periodontist, you should immediately inform them of the fact that you take blood thinners if dental work is needed. You should expect to state the name of the medication, the dosage amount, and how often you take it.

The information will be placed in your dental records. The dental professional will then consult with your cardiologist – if necessary – and then inform you as to whether or not you may proceed with the dental work. 

General Guidelines 

Each and every single patient is unique. If you are taking a blood thinner on a temporary basis, most practitioners will advise against having dental procedures performed that are not essential. The dental professional will determine your overall risk for bleeding and then balance whether or not stopping the medication could result in more complicated issues.

Most procedures such as dental cleanings, having fillings, and engaging in restorations are typically safe while taking blood thinners. 

If a complex procedure must be performed – such as the extraction of a tooth or the placement of a dental implant – it may be advised to stop the medication; however, not in every instance.

Diagnostic blood tests may be ordered and evaluated prior to drawing a conclusion. The two most common of these tests include the International Normalized Ration (INR) or the prothrombin time (PT). 

Contact Us Today

If you are in need of dental work and are on blood thinners, we here at Implant & Perio Center of Kansas encourage you to contact us today. We are capable of setting up an appointment to meet with you in person to review your concerns.

We will be able to make a decision on if it is safe to proceed while you are on the medication or if we will need you to stop the medication on a temporary basis.

We always customize care plans on an individual basis. To learn more, contact us today!