Residents across Basildon, Brentwood, and mid-Essex can now receive free blood pressure checks during routine dental visits, thanks to a new NHS initiative aimed at tackling undiagnosed hypertension.
The scheme targets patients over the age of 40 who have not had their blood pressure checked in the past year. It is designed to identify cases of undetected high blood pressure, a silent but serious health threat that increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and vascular dementia.
Health officials estimate that around 88,000 people in the region may be living with undiagnosed high blood pressure. To address this, the NHS is focusing efforts in areas with the highest rates of unidentified cases. Selected dental practices in these locations have joined the pilot programme.
Dr. Sophia Morris, oral health expert and clinical lead for health inequalities at NHS Mid and South Essex, said the initiative could be lifesaving.
“Offering blood pressure checks as part of routine dental appointments could help save lives and prevent future heart attacks or strokes,” she said. “It’s a small action that could make a positive difference.”
The checks are simple and quick, with dental teams taking two readings using NHS-supplied monitors. Patients who record high readings will receive advice on next steps, including guidance on follow-up testing.
Kayleigh Gleed, practice manager and dental nurse at Essex Dental Clinic in Earls Colne, said the programme fits naturally into patients’ busy lives.
“Many people may not consider blood pressure checks urgent, especially if they feel healthy,” she said. “But high blood pressure is an invisible danger that shows no symptoms. By offering these checks during dental appointments, we’re giving people an easy opportunity to learn more about their heart health.”
High blood pressure is influenced by several lifestyle factors, including excess weight, poor diet, lack of physical activity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and high stress levels. Left untreated, it can lead to life-threatening conditions.
The NHS hopes this innovative approach will encourage more residents to monitor their cardiovascular health and reduce the long-term burden of heart disease across the region.
