Dental Implants Procedure and Antibiotics
So, you are considering getting dental implants to replace one or more missing teeth. And you are wondering whether you will need to take antibiotics prior to or after the dental procedure. Before you worry too much, you should know that of all dental procedures, dental implants are one of the safest. However, as with most surgical procedures, there is always a risk to the person undergoing the procedure. In the context of dental implants, the risk is developing an infection.
This article will help you understand when you will need to take antibiotics to minimize the risk of infection.
Installing Dental Implants
Implants can still fail, despite having a high success rate (over 95%), and bacterial infection is a key factor. When placing implants, the bone must be surgically accessed via the gums. Other invasive operations, such as tooth extraction or bone and gum tissue grafting, may be required. These soft tissue disturbances have the potential to cause bacteria to enter the bloodstream.
When Should I Take Antibiotics?
Some individuals have a higher risk of developing an infection, not only around the implant but also in other parts of the body. Patients who use cigarettes, have a weak immune system, have significant health issues like diabetes or cardiovascular disease, or are overweight or underweight are at a higher risk of developing infections.
In order to avoid infection, especially in patients with the abovementioned health issues, dentists advise taking antibiotics before dental implant surgery. In addition to patients who have a prosthetic heart valve, a history of infective endocarditis, a heart transplant, or some congenital heart diseases.
Patients with Lower Risk of Developing Infection
Some dentists argue that patients with lower to moderate infections risk do not need to take antibiotics prior to implant surgery. The frequent use of antibiotics can have certain unwanted consequences, such as allergic responses. Moreover, there is a growing fear that many infectious bacteria will become resistant to antibiotics in case of frequent consumption. Many doctors and dentists are becoming more selective about which patients they recommend taking antibiotics prior to surgery.
Therefore, it actually depends on your unique situation, including the exact procedures you require as well as your overall state of health.
Do I need Antibiotics After Dental Implant?
Patients must carefully take care of the neighboring area around their new implant after dental implant surgery. The patient’s care routine will be critical in the first month since the dental implant is still integrating with the bone and tissues. Each patient is a unique case and the dentist will instruct each patient depending on the patient’s overall health. However, dentists may prescribe antibiotics to certain patients.
Other Instructions Following a Dental Implant Procedure
Moreover, there is a list of general instructions that applies to all patients that have just undergone dental implant surgery. For instance, patients should bite on pads to decrease the blood flow on the first day. They can also take painkillers when the anesthetic wears off. Soft foods are also a must for the first few days, in addition to rinsing with salt water to disinfect the implant area and the mouth in general. Of course, smoking is prohibited for at least two weeks after dental implant surgery as it increases the risk of infection.
Although every patient’s situation is unique, there are several stages of recovery following dental implant surgery. Maintaining good oral hygiene with your new dental implants should be your top priority. The implant has to stay clean for the jawbone to effectively integrate with it. Also, keep in mind that a dental implant can last a lifetime if it is taken care of properly.
If you would like to get a dental implant and need to further understand the role of antibiotics in your specific case, please contact or book an appointment for a consultation.
