Objective: The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the literature on dental care provided to hypertensive individuals, in order to establish a better approach of the clinic dental care for these patients. Material and methods: Bibliographical searches were carried out in the following electronic databases: MEDLINE, LILACS, BBO, and Science Direct, including the papers published in the period from 2006 to 2011. Results: The literature reports that the use of antihypertensive drugs may lead to oral complications such as decrease in salivary secretion and increased gingival tissue. Furthermore, the incorrect use of local anesthetics, with or without a vasoconstrictor, can further worsen the patient's hypertension. Conclusion: It is very important to emphasize the need of knowing the possible local and/or systemic complications due to drug therapy used in hypertensive individuals, so that dental treatment can be provided in a safe and effective way in these patients. DESCRIPTORS Hypertension. Oral Manifestations. Dental Care.