Can I Visit a Dentist with Mitral Valve Prolapse Concerns?

Mitral valve prolapse

In the past two months, I have experienced sudden chest pain.
I consulted a cardiologist, and an echocardiogram showed that I have mild mitral valve prolapse.
I am currently taking Concor 1.25 mg and Jing An Ning (four).
I have researched some information online, which states that to prevent injuries above the neck, dental work and surgeries can lead to infective endocarditis.
My teeth are currently very uncomfortable, and I would like to know if I can see a dentist in this situation.
Is it safe to go to a general dental clinic, or should I go to a dental department in a major hospital for safety? The distance to the major hospital is quite far!

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/19

Dr. Lin Jixiong reply Cardiology

Visiting the dentist is generally without concern; theoretically, when addressing dental issues, prophylactic antibiotics should be administered to prevent infective endocarditis.
However, not all dentists may follow this practice.
Given the current public health conditions and the improved nutritional status of the general population compared to the past, patients with mitral valve prolapse may not necessarily develop infective endocarditis even without prophylactic antibiotics.
It is advisable to discuss this matter with your dentist.

Reply Date: 2016/11/19

More Info

Yes, you can visit a dentist even if you have mitral valve prolapse (MVP). However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind, especially regarding the risk of infective endocarditis, which is a potential concern for individuals with certain heart conditions, including MVP.

Mitral valve prolapse is a condition where the valve between the heart's left atrium and left ventricle doesn't close properly, which can sometimes lead to complications. While most people with MVP do not experience significant issues, it is wise to be cautious, especially when it comes to dental procedures. The concern arises because dental work can potentially introduce bacteria into the bloodstream, which could lead to infective endocarditis, an infection of the heart lining or valves.

Here are some recommendations for your situation:
1. Consult Your Cardiologist: Before visiting a dentist, it’s essential to discuss your dental concerns with your cardiologist. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific health status and the severity of your MVP. They may recommend prophylactic antibiotics before certain dental procedures to reduce the risk of infection.

2. Choosing the Right Dentist: While general dental practices can handle routine dental care, it may be beneficial to visit a dentist who has experience treating patients with heart conditions. Some dental offices are more familiar with the precautions necessary for patients with MVP or other heart issues. If you have a local dentist you trust, it’s worth discussing your concerns with them directly.

3. Inform Your Dentist: When you do visit the dentist, make sure to inform them about your mitral valve prolapse and any medications you are taking, such as the ones you mentioned (Kankin and Jing Anning). This information is crucial for them to provide safe and appropriate care.

4. Routine Dental Care: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are important for maintaining oral health, especially if you are experiencing discomfort. Neglecting dental issues can lead to more significant problems, which might require more invasive procedures that carry higher risks.

5. Emergency Situations: If you experience severe dental pain or other urgent dental issues, do not hesitate to seek care. While it’s important to be cautious, delaying necessary treatment can lead to complications that may outweigh the risks associated with your heart condition.

6. Distance to Care: If traveling to a large hospital is challenging due to distance, consider looking for a reputable dental clinic closer to your home that has experience with patients who have heart conditions. Many smaller clinics can provide excellent care and may have protocols in place for patients with MVP.

In summary, while you can visit a dentist with mitral valve prolapse, it is crucial to take the necessary precautions. Consult with your cardiologist, choose a knowledgeable dentist, and ensure they are aware of your condition. Regular dental care is vital, and addressing any discomfort promptly will help maintain your overall health.

Similar Q&A

Managing Mild Mitral Valve Prolapse: The Importance of Periodontal Treatment

Hello Doctor: I have mild mitral valve prolapse, which was discovered during an echocardiogram in middle school. Since then, I have undergone about five echocardiograms over the past five years, all showing mild mitral valve prolapse. A few months ago, I consulted with my family ...

Dr. Ding Zhizhong reply Cardiology
Hi Peter: Essentially, mitral valve prolapse is a quite common condition, and many people attribute unexplained palpitations or chest pain to it. However, so far, surgical treatment is only considered if there are significant symptoms (such as severe regurgitation affecting heart...

Tooth Extraction and Mitral Valve Prolapse: What You Need to Know

Hello Doctor: I was recently diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse and some regurgitation, which I don't quite understand. The doctor advised me to be cautious about bacterial endocarditis when undergoing tooth extraction or dental cleaning. I would like to ask if I need to i...

Dr. Liu Tiancai reply Dentistry
Hello: According to the American Heart Association's guidelines on the prophylactic use of antibiotics for the prevention of heart disease published in 1997, patients with mitral valve prolapse who have associated regurgitation need to take antibiotics prior to certain denta...

Understanding Mitral Valve Prolapse: Treatment and Related Conditions

How should mitral valve prolapse be treated? Is there an increased risk of tricuspid valve prolapse in individuals with mitral valve prolapse?

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology
Yes, individuals with mitral valve disorders are also more likely to have tricuspid valve disorders, but there is no absolute correlation. Patients with mitral valve prolapse may appear to have various health issues, but over 90% of these cases are benign. Aside from being somewh...

Which Specialist Should You See for Mitral Valve Prolapse and Anxiety?

Dear Doctor: I have been experiencing issues with sleep quality for a long time. As a single parent of two children, I often struggle to get enough rest, which leads to frequent outbursts of anger towards my kids. Coupled with physical exhaustion, family stress, and unhappiness, ...

Dr. Ding Shuyan reply Psychiatry
Hello, the cardiologist who prescribed these medications should have explained to you that there may not be any issues with your heart itself, but rather problems related to the autonomic nervous system or emotional stress. These medications are effective and you should feel temp...