New resources help dentists identify patients at risk of cardiovascular disease

The American Heart Association’s Healthy Smiles, Healthy Hearts initiative, in collaboration with insurance provider Delta Dental of California, has launched a new standard of care for heart health screening within the oral healthcare setting. Focused on blood pressure screening and referral to primary care, the initiative provides professional education highlighting the connection between oral health and heart health, a standard blood pressure screening and referral guide, and educational materials for patients.

According to a 2024 survey conducted by The Harris Poll for the American Heart Association, almost nine in ten dental patients consider their dental care team to be an important part of their overall healthcare team. Furthermore, the survey found that over eight in ten patients are open to their dental care team checking their blood pressure during dental appointments.

Dr Eduardo Sanchez, chief medical officer for prevention at the American Heart Association, commented in a press release: “For many, the dental chair is the only point of contact with the healthcare system, and that makes dental professionals an essential partner in chronic disease early detection.” He added: “That early detection can lead to timely referrals, better outcomes and lives saved.”

Dr Daniel Croley, chief dental officer at Delta Dental of California, said: “The mouth is a gateway to the body, and oral health professionals have a powerful opportunity to integrate more into their patients’ collective healthcare team beyond protecting their patients’ teeth. By connecting oral health and heart health, this initiative helps dentists identify risks early and guide patients towards care that can improve and even save lives.”

The new resources will help dental care professionals:

• learn more about the connection between oral health and cardiovascular health and engage with the latest science on blood pressure management through an e-module and educational activities;
• adopt a standardised blood pressure screening process that involves referrals to primary care; and
• provide patients with educational materials that explain the connection between oral health and cardiovascular health and help them take charge of their overall health.

High blood pressure affects around 47% of adults in the US and is a leading risk factor for heart disease and stroke. A new joint guideline from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, released in August, advises earlier treatment for hypertension that includes lifestyle modification and medications as appropriate and reinforces the importance of healthy lifestyle behaviours, such as eating a heart healthy diet, being physically active, and maintaining or achieving a healthy weight.

The Healthy Smiles, Healthy Hearts initiative aims to improve the overall health of patients nationwide by expanding access to integrated healthcare and educating patients and clinicians on the connection between heart health and oral health.

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