We are pleased that Dr. Merin and many others who contacted us directly found the article to be useful. The intention of our article was to update the dental profession on the new blood pressure guidelines, the Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure, or JNC 7, and to emphasize the need for dentists to be involved in the detection and management of hypertension. JNC 7 sets an ambitious agenda for identification and control of this insidious disease. Dentistry can and should play an important role in this effort.
Points to keep in mind are that, while dental care can often be safely accomplished on individuals with elevated blood pressure, the goal is to identify hypertension so that these patients can receive proper medical attention. Additionally, any guidelines for providing care for individuals with elevated blood pressure are empirically based and, at present, do not have rigorous research support.
The table developed by Dr. Merin for use in his dental office fairly summarizes the material presented in our article and, as such, should provide a ready reference for everyday use. He is to be complimented for his efforts in the preparation of this resource, as well as for his enthusiasm for incorporating blood pressure measurement into his patient management.
