After an MI or CVA, how long should elective dental treatment be postponed?

• A. 3 months
• B. 6 months
• C. 1 year
• D. 2 weeks

Answer: (B)

After a heart attack or a stroke, the body needs time to stabilize and medications to be optimized before elective dental work. The stress of dental treatment—pain, anxiety, and the physiological response of increased heart rate and blood pressure—can raise myocardial oxygen demand and potentially trigger another cardiac event. In stroke patients, there’s also the concern of hemostasis and interactions with antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy, which can complicate procedures and recovery. Waiting about six months allows the patient to reach a more stable condition with better healing and lower risk of perioperative complications. During this period, it’s important to obtain medical clearance and coordinate with the patient’s physician before proceeding with elective care. If any urgent care is needed earlier, it should be managed with minimal stress, careful hemostasis, and appropriate medical input.