Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and oral bleeding complications after invasive dental treatment

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the frequency of oral bleeding complications after invasive dental procedures in patients taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) medications. Study design: In this retrospective cohort study, we included dental patients who had invasive dental treatment and were taking an SSRI medication. Data collected included demographics, medical history, dental visits and procedures, and use of adjunctive measures to control bleeding. Primary outcomes included documentation of return visits or phone calls to the dental clinic or emergency department (ED) for oral bleeding, and oral bleeding or use of blood products for inpatients. Results: There were 92 patients taking SSRIs who had 145 invasive procedure visits, consisting of extractions, implant surgery, alveoloplasty, periodontal surgery, subgingival scaling and root planning, and biopsy. There were 110 extraction visits yielding a total of 167 extractions. Among all patients, there was 1 return visit to the clinic and 1 telephone call with a chief complaint of oral bleeding. Conclusions: The frequency of oral bleeding complications after invasive dental treatment is low to negligible in patients on SSRI medications. © 2011 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.