Brit Hospitalized for Life-Saving Treatment Following Dental Check-up

UK: A 65-year-old man in Plymouth underwent life-saving treatment after a routine blood pressure check at his dentist’s office. The case, highlighted in a study published in the British Dental Journal, underscores the critical role dental check-ups can play in identifying potential health issues beyond oral care.

Hypertension Case-Finding Clinic by University of Plymouth

The patient, who remains anonymous, attended a hypertension case-finding clinic conducted by the University of Plymouth’s Peninsula Dental School and Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise (PDSE). Despite having a history of high blood pressure and prescribed medication by his GP, the blood pressure check at the dental school revealed readings of 150/85mmHg in June 2022.

Prompt action was taken as the patient was encouraged to contact his GP, and the research team issued a formal referral letter. Within six days of the dental check-up, the patient was advised to visit the local emergency department. Subsequently, he spent 13 days in the hospital, receiving treatment for heart failure and suspected acute coronary syndrome. Additionally, he was later diagnosed with an overactive thyroid.

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Study Highlights the Importance of Dental Checks

The study, authored by researchers at the University of Plymouth, emphasizes the significance of checks conducted in primary care dental settings. The model employed in this case is described as clinician-led, ensuring accurate blood pressure measurements and facilitating referrals to other healthcare services.

Amazon Doble, a PhD student at the University’s Faculty of Health who established the blood pressure clinic, expressed the success of the clinician-led model. Doble stated, “When we first saw this patient, his blood pressure was an obvious cause for concern. However, it was amazing to then hear that the checks provided through our service had led to him receiving potentially life-saving treatment.”

Dental Education Facility’s Role in Research Project

The blood pressure checks were introduced as part of a research project exploring the link between oral bacteria (oral microbiome) and cardiovascular disease at the University’s Dental Education Facility in Devonport, Plymouth, in 2022. Since its inception, the hypertension case-finding clinics have recruited over 200 patients, enhancing the scope of healthcare provided during dental appointments.

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