Based on a review of new and existing scientific evidence, most dental patients with heart disease no longer need antibiotics before dental procedures to prevent Infective Endocarditis, a rare, but life threatening heart infection.  According to the recently revised guidelines from the American Heart Association with input from the American Dental Association, antibiotics are now only recommended for patients that are at the greatest risk for negative outcomes form Infective Endocarditis including those with artificial heart valves, heart transplant recipients who develop heart valve problems, certain congenital heart defects, recipients of an artificial patch to repair a congenital heart defect within the past six months and patients with a past history of Infective Endocarditis.   The American Heart Association's latest guidelines were recently published in April in its scientific journal and by the American Dental Association in June.   A summary can be found on the American Dental Associations' website at www.ada.org/goto/endocarditis.
         The new guidelines are based on a growing body of scientific evidence that shows that the risks of taking preventative antibiotics outweigh the benefits for the most patients.  The risks include adverse reactions to antibiotics that range from mild to potentially severe, and in rare cases, death.  Inappropriate use of antibiotics can also lead to the development of drug -resistant bacteria.
     For Decades, the American Heart Association recommended that patients with certain heart conditions take antibiotics shortly before dental treatment. This was done with the belief that antibiotics would prevent potential Infective Endocarditis which is an infection of the hearts' inner lining and valves. This results when bacteria enter the bloodstream and travel to the heart. People with active gum disease, often evidenced by bleeding gums when brushing and flossing, place themselves under greater daily risk than any dental procedure.  More frequent professional cleanings and exams can help to maintain healthy gums and reduce your risk if you have heart problems.
     Please have a talk with your Cardiologist  and Dentist before your next dental procedure .