Going to the dentist keeps your teeth and gums healthy. But did you know that some dental treatments could affect your heart? Treatments like tooth extractions or gum surgeries can sometimes cause a serious heart infection called infective endocarditis.
This infection affects the heart's inner lining and valves and can be very dangerous if not treated quickly. That's why doctors often recommend antibiotics before certain dental procedures—to prevent this heart infection.
The Cross County Education team is excited to share their latest research on this topic. They've reviewed various studies to see how effective antibiotics are at reducing the risk of heart infection after dental work.
Their findings? Antibiotics can significantly lower the risk. People who took antibiotics before dental procedures were about 81% less likely to develop a heart infection than those who didn't.
This suggests that taking antibiotics as a preventive measure can be crucial for protecting your heart during dental treatments.
Talk to Your Doctor
If you have a heart condition or an artificial heart valve, discuss antibiotic use with your doctor before any dental work. Your doctor will advise whether you need antibiotics to reduce your risk of infective endocarditis.
Even if you don’t have heart issues, it’s wise to talk about any planned dental work with your doctor. They can help decide if you should take antibiotics.
By coordinating with both your dentist and doctor, you can keep your heart safe during dental treatments.
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