When it comes to dental work, staying safe before, during, and after the procedure is important. For most individuals, preventive antibiotics aren’t necessary, especially those with a strong immune system. However, for those who have a heart condition, a tooth extraction in DuPont can mean the difference between a successful recovery or potentially serious infection. Read on to find out what the American Heart Association (AHA) has to say on the topic and what the current recommendations are for individuals with poor heart health.
Are Preventive Antibiotics Necessary?
Experts with the AHA have spent decades researching the benefits of preventive antibiotics. Also known as antibiotic prophylaxis, these medications were initially recommended for anyone with a heart condition preparing to undergo dental work of any kind. Because the mouth contains large numbers of bacteria that can easily enter the bloodstream, dentists prescribed certain antibiotics to better protect individuals who could be at a higher risk of developing infective endocarditis (IE) – an infection that occurs within the lining or valves of the heart.
However, recent studies are now rethinking the recommendation of all patients with a heart condition taking antibiotic prophylaxis. Why? Because it has been proven that the potential harm is greater than the good. Experts say that individuals are at a greater risk of experiencing an adverse reaction to oral medication, and bacteria are becoming more resistant to the antibiotics prescribed. Researchers are now saying that IE is more likely to occur when an individual is performing normal activities each day that expose them to all types of bacteria than having a tooth extracted.
But just because the guidelines changed for some does not mean that antibiotic prophylaxis is going away. Individuals with certain heart conditions can still benefit from taking these medications, such as those with artificial heart valves, have a history of developing IE, are living with a congenital heart problem, or those who have received a cardiac transplant that led to a heart valve problem.
Tooth Extractions and the Heart: Why the Worry?
It should come as no surprise that complex dental procedures like a tooth extraction cause saliva, blood, and bacteria to appear. The removal of a tooth requires either the gentle rocking of the tooth back and forth until it detaches or making a small incision in the gums to extract. It’s natural for these bodily fluids to pool in the mouth during the process, but for someone with a heart condition, the bacteria that exists can quickly begin to wreak havoc.
By providing these individuals with antibiotic prophylaxis, it decreases the risk of bacteria causing an infection, reaching the heart, and causing additional problems.
If you are concerned about the potential risk of infection before any type of dental work, don’t be afraid to talk to your dentist in DuPont. By sharing your medical and health history as well as any medications you are currently taking, you can decrease your risk and ensure your necessary procedure is a success.
About the Practice
At Dupont Family Dentistry, our team of professionals wants all patients to experience a seamless and successful appointment each time they visit. Offering comprehensive dental care, we uphold the highest standards when it comes to patient health and safety. Preparing to undergo a procedure or complex dental work? We encourage you to inform us of any medications you are taking or conditions you are suffering from so that we can properly prescribe any preventive antibiotics before your surgery. Contact us at (253) 964-7000 to learn what we can do for you.