Antibiotic Prophylaxis for Dental Care: Is it Needed?

by admin on May 26, 2010

When do you need antibiotic prophylaxis?  Is it needed at all before you undergo dental care?  Antibiotic prophylaxis for dental care is needed in some circumstances.

If any of the following situations apply to you, antibiotic prophylaxis for dental care is recommended:

If you have had heart surgery within the past six months.
If you have a pacemaker.
If you have had an artery replaced in the last six months.
If you have an artificial heart valve.
If you have a history of rheumatic fever.
If you have a history of mitral valve prolapse.
If you have had bacterial endocarditis.
If you have a systemic pulmonary shunt.
If you have a congenital heart defect.

Antibiotics may be prescribed for you before receiving dental treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.  The antibiotics will keep you from developing infections during dental care.  You are more likely to have problems with this after experiencing heart problems.

Another situation that may require antibiotic prophylaxis before dental care is if you have had total joint replacements within the last two years.  These recommendations are made by the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

Before you receive dental treatment your dentist may want to talk to your surgeon, physician, or cardiologist.  This will ensure that you  receive the appropriate antibiotics.

Be sure to tell your dentist if you are taking any new medications, including prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs.  This information is crucial so that you will receive the best antibiotics for your medical situation.

There may be times when receiving antibiotic prophylaxis before dental care is definitely needed.

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