Yes! Patients of all ages are welcome to experience our high standards of dental care. We are happy to get referrals, too!

The American Dental Association and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons  have released a new evidence based guideline on the prevention of orthopedic implant infection in patients undergoing dental procedures. Based on a collaborative systematic review of the scientific literature, the AAOS and ADA have found that the evidence does not support routine prescription of antibiotic prophylaxis for patients with joint replacement undergoing dental procedures. Treatment decisions should be made in light of all circumstances presented by the patient. Treatments and procedures applicable to the individual patient rely on mutual communication between patient, physician and other healthcare practitioners in accordance with evidence-based medicine applicability.

The evidence does demonstrate that antibiotics taken before dental procedures help prevent infections of orthopedic implants, and the routine use of antibiotics in this manner has potential side-effects, such as increased bacterial resistance, allergic reactions, diarrhea, and possibly death. Therefore, members (Dentists) should not prescribe antibiotic prophylaxis unless patients have a medical condition that may place them at a greater risk for implant infections, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, chemotherapy, and chronic steroid use. Members (Dentists) are reminded that patients may present with a recommendation from a physician that is inconsistent with current guidelines for antibiotic prophylaxis. This may reflect a lack of familiarity with the guidelines or special considerations about the patient’s medical condition of which the dentist is unaware. In such circumstances, members are encouraged to consult with the physician. Ideally, consensus should be reached among the professionals involved. However, each (dentist) is responsible for his or her own treatment decisions.

As a result of this consultation, the dentist may decide to follow the physician’s recommendation or, if professional judgment dictates that antibiotic prophylaxis is not indicated, decline to provide it. In the latter circumstance, the dentist may suggest that the physician should prescribe for the patient as she or he deems appropriate.”

• RCDSO Dispatch. Professional Practice. May/June 2013. Page 30-31.

Learn more about Antibiotic Prophylaxis and Joint Replacements here: 

• Do people with artificial joints need antibiotics before a dental visit?