Q: Who should take antibiotics before a dental procedure?

A: There was a time that the American Heart Association recommended that people with a wide array of conditions take antibiotics before having a dental procedure that could let bacteria from diseased gums get into the bloodstream and cause infective endocarditis, a serious infection. The association over the years has modified its position to say that only people with the highest risk of infection should take preventive antibiotics before a dental cleaning or a tooth extraction. This would include people who have serious congenital heart defects, artificial heart valves, a heart transplant or a history of infective endocarditis. Of course the wisest course for any dental patient who has heart issues is to talk with his or her physician or cardiologist about the specifics of the situation. They can give you the best recommendation.

Research has shown over the years that in some cases the risk of taking antibiotics can outweigh the benefit. Some people have allergic reactions. Talk with your dentist about heart and any other health issues you may have.

June 14 , 2010