“Unbreak My Heart”

Thomas Viola RPh, C.C.P

“Cardiovascular Disease, Dental Considerations and Patient Care Planning”

Cardiovascular disease is one of the major diseases affecting adults in the U.S. While mortality from heart disease has been declining steadily recently, hospital admissions related to cardiovascular disease are on the rise, due, in part, to our aging population. Hypertension remains one of the major risk factors for heart failure in men and women. It is often asymptomatic and many times may only be discovered at a routine check-up with a medical or dental professional.

This program will provide an overview of cardiovascular disease and the medications used in its treatment. Using case scenarios, special emphasis will be given to developing patient management strategies essential for successful treatment planning and proper care of our medically complex dental patients.

• Discuss the family of cardiovascular diseases and the complex interplay with systemic inflammation and co-morbid diseases.
• Review the classes of medications used in the treatment of hypertension along with their pharmacologic effects, adverse reactions and dental implications.
• Discuss the mechanism of action of legacy and new anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents, including their adverse reactions and patient care considerations.
• Describe the treatment modifications and care planning strategies recommended for dental patients with cardiovascular disease, including the dental professional’s role in monitoring vital signs.