Most of the time, dentists are able to perform their treatments on patients with no trouble. However, there are times when they might ask you to take a short round of antibiotics before your treatment begins. But why is that? It all has to do with the way that bacteria spreads and interacts with your body.
If you want to learn why antibiotics are sometimes necessary for dental procedures, continue reading.
The Connection Between Oral Bacteria and Your Health
Before delving into specific procedures and health conditions, it’s important to understand how oral bacteria affect systemic health. Certain dental treatments can introduce high volumes of bacteria into the bloodstream, potentially leading to infections or complications. This is especially true for patients with compromised immune systems or specific health conditions.
Dentists fortify their patients using antibiotic prophylaxis (treating with antibiotics before a procedure) to protect them from potential harm.
What Health Conditions May Require Antibiotics?
Here are some of the health conditions your dentist may need to consider for antibiotics before your treatment begins:
- Heart Conditions: Individuals with certain heart conditions, such as artificial heart valves or a history of infective endocarditis, may be advised to take antibiotics before dental procedures.
- Joint Replacements: Patients with joint replacements, like hip or knee replacements, may require antibiotics to prevent infections that could affect the artificial joint.
- Immune System Disorders: Conditions that compromise the immune system, such as diabetes may warrant antibiotic prophylaxis.
Which Dental Procedures May Require Antibiotics?
Antibiotics aren’t only for patients with health conditions. Sometimes a specific procedure may threaten to introduce more bacteria into the bloodstream than normal. These are some of the procedures your dentist may want to brace you for:
- Dental Extractions: The removal of teeth, especially wisdom teeth, may warrant antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent infection.
- Periodontal Procedures: Surgeries or treatments involving the gums, such as scaling and root planing, may pose a risk, necessitating antibiotics for vulnerable individuals.
- Dental Implant Placement: As a surgical procedure, dental implant placement may require antibiotics to mitigate the risk of infection.
Will I Need Antibiotics?
The decision to prescribe antibiotics before or after dental procedures is not one-size-fits-all. It requires a personalized assessment of the patient’s health status, the specific dental treatment, and potential risks. It’s important to talk with your dentist to determine whether antibiotic prophylaxis is necessary in your case.
The relationship between dental procedures, oral bacteria, and systemic health highlights the importance of antibiotic prophylaxis in specific situations. By working closely with your dentist, you can proactively protect your oral health and keep your body healthy.
About the Practice
At South Ridge Dental, Dr. Ryan Shaffer and Dr. Steven Shaffer are your talented dental experts. They use state-of-the-art dental technology and gentle techniques to provide top-quality dental care in a warm and welcoming environment. If you want to see yourself in your best smile, come into the office to work with them on your customized treatment plan. Call (402) 423-1616 or visit the website to schedule your appointment.