Pacemakers are becoming increasingly common, and it is estimated around 3.25 million people have functioning cardiac pacemakers throughout the world. If you have a pacemaker then you might be worried about the effect dental treatment could have, and although your dentist or dental hygienist should assess your current medical history before beginning treatment, it’s important to let them know the type of pacemaker, and how long ago it was fitted.

The reason for this is that pacemakers can be sensitive towards strong electric magnetic signals which could temporarily disrupt their function. Most modern devices are fitted with safeguards which include electronic shields or filters that insulate the patient from the effects of electromagnetic interference. The majority of dental procedures and treatments do not involve using equipment which produces strong electromagnetic signals, and most are unlikely to interfere with a shielded pacemaker.

There may be a very slight risk if the equipment is older, or if you are fitted with a pacemaker which isn’t shielded. In these cases exposure to such equipment could cause a temporary increase in the pace rate, but the pacemaker should resume normal function once the dental equipment is turned off.

Signs that a pacemaker may be malfunctioning include difficulty breathing, feeling dizzy or light headed, or noticing a change in pulse rate. Other symptoms include muscular twitching, feeling pain in the chest, and noticing swelling in the chest, arms, wrists, and ankles. It is most unlikely that this will happen, and it’s highly likely that the pacemaker will return to normal once the dental equipment has been switched off. However if this does occur it is important to see your cardiologist.