During a dental procedure, it is possible for bacteria from the mouth, teeth or gums to travel through the bloodstream and settle in an artificial knee.
The use of an antibiotic pill prior to dental work has been thought to lower this risk.
Orthopedic surgeons have historically recommended the routine use of antibiotics prior to dental work due to the catastrophic effects of a prosthetic joint infection and the relative safety of a single dose of oral antibiotics.
Many factors should be considered when you are making this decision, such as:
The type of procedure being performed – routine cleaning vs. more invasive work
Your health status – patients with compromised immune systems are at greater risk
The presence or absence of an active infection in the mouth
The recommendations of your surgeon and dentist
With the lack of a definitive answer on this question, we recommend that you discuss this with your surgeon.
Developing an infection in and around a total knee replacement is one of the most catastrophic complications that can occur. If you suspect you might have an infection, it is important to seek treatment early.
Dr. Dev Padia
Specialist Orthopaedic Pain Doctor, Fracture Ligament Injuries and Best Knee Replacement and Hip Replacement Surgeon, Surat.