Antibiotics for Dental Cleaning

Your mouth has all the right elements for the active growth of bacteria. That is why brushing and flossing at least twice daily is recommended be dentists. Bacteria causes plaque and tartar to build up on the teeth and over time can cause cavities. Often dentists prescribe antibiotics to fight this bacteria during teeth cleaning.

Controversial Issue

• Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed for individuals having their teeth cleaned.

  In years past, many dentists recommended the use of antibiotics for most persons before they had their teeth cleaned. Recently, it has been determined that it is not necessary to take medication beforehand unless the person has certain medical conditions. As recently as 2007 guidelines for antibiotic use for teeth cleaning were revised.

Bacterial Endocarditis

• Individuals with serious heart conditions should receive antibiotics during teeth cleaning.

  During clinical removal of tartar and plaque from your teeth, bacteria released into your mouth can end up in your blood stream. This bacteria can infect the endocardium, or thin lining of the heart cavities, under certain conditions. It is recommended that those who have had heart valves replaced, have had a heart transplant, or have a history of certain serious congenital heart conditions or bacterial endocarditis should be prescribed antibiotics before having their teeth cleaned.

Other Conditions

• Persons with joint replacements should take antibiotics before teeth cleaning.

  It is recommended that you take antibiotics during teeth cleaning or other invasive dental procedure for up to two years after you have joint replacement surgery. Antibiotics are also recommended for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, HIV, hemophilia, type I diabetes, cancer or malnutrition.