TEETH
BY DR. ERIC EBY
Taking antibiotics before a visit Dr. Eby shares why it’s important for some patients
A
ntibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections. Antibiotic prophylaxis (AP) is the administering of antibiotics before a surgery or any other procedure that may allow bacteria into your bloodstream (bacteremia). For most patients with a healthy immune system this is not a problem. During dental procedures that cause bleeding, such as a hygiene visit, large numbers of bacteria naturally present in the mouth can enter the bloodstream and overwhelm our immune system so antibiotics are given. Persons at high risk for developing a serious infection include those with certain heart ailments and prosthetic joints. Antibiotics are given to these patients for an extra layer of protection against developing a bacteremia or infection of the heart (infective endocarditis). Many studies have proven that daily activities such as
chewing, brushing, and flossing cause more bacteremias than routine dental treatments and our immune system can handle this with no problem. Currently, the AHA only recommends antibiotics before dental procedures for patients with the highest risk of infection, those who have: 1. A prosthetic heart valve or who have had a heart valve repaired with prosthetic material 2. A history of endocarditis 3. A heart transplant with abnormal heart valve function 4. Certain congenital heart defects including: • Cyanotic congenital heart disease (birth defects with oxygen levels lower than normal), which has not been fully repaired, including in children who have had surgical shunts and conduits • A congenital heart defect
that has been repaired with prosthetic material or a device for the first six months after the repair procedure • Repaired congenital heart disease with residual defects, such as persisting leaks or abnormal flow at, or adjacent to, prosthetic patch or prosthetic device If you’re not sure about the guidelines for your heart condition, check with your heart specialist. If you have one of these conditions, always tell your dentist. Also, alert your dentist if you (or your child) are allergic to any antibiotics or other medications. For patients with joint replacement antibiotic prophylaxis may or may not be necessary for most dental procedures. Certain immunocompromised and diabetic patients may benefit from AP. If unsure it is always best to discuss with orthopedist and dentist.
Why your mouth is so important to your health
Dr. Eric L. Eby, D.D.S., M.A.G.D. His interests include crown and bridge, implant dentistry, and sleep apnea. To learn more, please visit: www.dreby.com
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