In-vivo compatibility between pacemakers and dental equipment

A Patient with Permanent Cardiac Pacemaker, History of Stroke Presents for an Extraction of Mandibular Molar Tooth

Poor oral health and/or dental disease are highly prevalent among stroke survivors. Muscle weakness and loss of dexterity can decrease the patient's ability to provide effective oral hygiene post-stroke. Modifications to dental treatment should be based on the degree of neurologic sequelae, including scheduling needs. Special considerations must be taken with individuals who have permanent cardiac pacemakers.

Electromagnetic interference effect of dental equipment on cardiac implantable electrical devices: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

The electromagnet interference (EMI) effect resulting from using dental equipment near cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) is controversial based on in vitro and in vivo studies. We aimed to summarize the available evidence to investigate the safety of using dental equipment on patients with CIEDs.

METHODS

An electronic search was performed in PubMed, Embase, MEDLINE Ovid, and the Cochrane Library for relevant studies published between January 2000 and May 2020. The search strategy centered on terms related to dental devices and CIEDs. Two independent reviewers determined the final inclusion of the studies in the systematic review. The EMI effect was summarized based on different dental instruments detected in in vitro or in vivo studies.

RESULTS

The primary search identified 84 articles, and 18 studies were finally included in this systematic review after exclusions. Most in vitro studies (n = 12) reported background noise or severe EMI affecting CIED function at a close distance from the lead tip or at a high sensitivity setting of CIEDs. In in vivo studies (n = 6), EMI that altered CIED function was not detected at clinical distance and sensitivity settings. The summary, based on electronic apex locators, ultrasonic devices, and electric pulp testers, demonstrated the compatibility of these common dental devices with CIEDs.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review indicates that most dental instruments can be used safely in routine dental practice. The EMI effect of dental equipment depends on the exposure distance and lead-related parameters of the CIEDs.