I understand that some dental procedures are risky for people who take blood thinners. I take Xarelto and am considering getting my teeth whitened. Is it safe to get my teeth whitened if I take a blood thinner? Thanks. Lydia
Lydia,
Thank you for your question. Invasive dental procedures have a greater risk of provoking bleeding than noninvasive procedures. Whenever you see a health care provider, ensure you update your records with your prescription medication so the doctor can anticipate any concerns and plan accordingly.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe If You Take Blood Thinning Medication?
Teeth whitening is safe if you take blood thinning medication because the whitening procedure is noninvasive. If your teeth and gums are disease free, the whitening process should not cause bleeding. When gums bleed easily, gum disease is often the cause, and even flossing your teeth can irritate your gums. Your dentist will recommend gum disease treatment before teeth whitening to minimize the risk of bleeding.
What Happens During the Teeth Whitening Procedure?
Before teeth whitening, your dentist will ensure your teeth and gums are healthy. During the in-office whitening session, you can expect the following steps:
- Retract your cheeks to get full access to your teeth
- Apply a protective barrier on your gums to prevent bleaching gel burns
- Apply bleaching gel to each tooth
- Rinse your teeth and repeat the process two or three times depending on the brightness you want
Request a Teeth Whitening Consultation
Schedule a consultation with a dentist if you are concerned about whether a dental procedure will conflict with your medication or affect a medical condition. The dentist will explain what the treatment involves and whether precautions are needed before your procedure date.
Ask Your Medical Doctor
Keep your medical doctor or prescribing physician informed about any health care procedures you plan. The doctor can review your medications and collaborate with your dentist or other health care provider to ensure your safety before, during, and after the procedure.
Metairie, Louisiana, dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post.
