Invasive Dental Treatment Linked to Vascular Events?

Invasive dental treatment might be associated with a short-term increase in vascular risk, according to a self-controlled study in the Annals of Internal Medicine.


Using Medicaid databases, researchers identified some 1200 adults who both underwent invasive dental procedures (e.g., periodontal therapy, extractions) and also experienced a myocardial infarction or stroke from 2002 to 2006. They found that vascular events were more common in the month after dental treatment than at other times during the observation period (incidence ratio, 1.5). Risk gradually returned to baseline by 6 months after dental treatment.


The authors point to acute inflammation as a potential underlying mechanism. They add that "the absolute risks are minimal, and the long-term benefits on vascular health will probably outweigh the short-lived adverse effects." Meanwhile, editorialists say the study is "an important reminder to continue cardioprotective antiplatelet agents if at all possible before and after dental procedures in patients who are receiving these agents."