Clopidogrel (Plavix) and your teeth

Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet medication used after heart attack, stroke, or stent placement, and often combined with aspirin in the months following a cardiac event.

Clopidogrel blocks platelet activation through a different mechanism than aspirin and produces somewhat more prolonged bleeding. Patients on dual antiplatelet therapy (aspirin plus clopidogrel) bleed the most. Current guidelines still favor continuing the medication for routine dental work, because stopping increases stent thrombosis and stroke risk substantially.