It may seem strange that people who have had a hip or knee replacement surgeries would need to take special precautions before a dental appointment, but it’s true. The mouth and the hip may be a torso apart, but the blood stream connects them.
The mouth is teeming with bacteria that generally aren’t harmful to us as long as they stay in the mouth or flow directly into the stomach. But dental procedures tend to cause at least some degree of injury to the gums that creates bleeding. If you stop and think about it, even gentle flossing results in some gum bleeding.
Tooth extractions, surgery, root canal and even your regularly scheduled cleaning can puncture the soft tissue in your mouth. The medical concern is that bacteria could enter the bloodstream and take root on the artificial joint that is a foreign object in your body.
To some degree, requiring patients to take preventive antibiotics may be more theoretical than practical. The risk of infection is considered very low and medical agencies have differed over the years about the policy.
In 2003, the American Dental Association strongly recommended taking a dose of antibiotics one hour before a procedure. That policy was to be followed for at least two years after a joint replacement. In 2009, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons called for antibiotics ahead of any dental work, including cleanings. But in 2012, both organizations appeared to leave the policy at the discretion of individual dentists. That position may be related to the fact that excess use of antibiotics can lead to resistant strains of bacteria. Therefore, taking preventive antibiotics before dental procedures now varies from dentist to dentist. However, many lean on the side of caution and follow the preventative regimen. It’s important that you consult with your replacement surgeon and dentist in advance.
Other Conditions
On the other hand, there is still a consensus about patients taking a course of preventive antibiotics who suffer heart problems and other serious health issues. Those who are most at risk include patients with:
- Previously heart infections
- Artificial heart valves
- Heart transplants
- Heart surgeries
- Heart defects
- Cancer patients
- HIV infected
- Hemophiliacs
Before undergoing a dental procedure, discuss any health issues or medical procedures you’ve had in the past. Follow your dentist’s advice and policies as well as other medical professionals whose care you are under. Oral hygiene and dental care are part of your overall health and well being.
SOURCES:
http://www.askdoctork.com/joint-replacement-need-take-antibiotic-dental-procedure-201502067424
http://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/antibiotic-prophylaxis