Do You Need Antibiotics for Your Dental Implants?

Do You Need Antibiotics for You Dental Implants?

At Access Dental Care, we are often asked if we will prescribe antibiotics to our patients who receive dental implants. While some patients do need the medication, not all do, and it is important to speak with Dr. Song if you have any concerns. In today’s world, it is shocking the number of patients who are missing teeth (one in every three Americans). This means that there is a serious need for dental implants and many people will discuss them with Dr. Song at some point in time. While dental implants are unique in nature, they accomplish a couple of things for patients and that includes a boost in self-confidence and a beautiful, complete smile. Below, Dr. Song will discuss whether or not antibiotics are needed for dental implants.

Dental Implants: What Are They?

If you do not know what a dental implant is, that is okay. Many patients who are new to missing teeth, do not know what options are available to them. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root made typically from titanium and it is surgically implanted into the jaw bone. Once the bone is healed, the implant will be secured in place in your mouth.

Often times, patients will need to have a procedure or two completed prior to the implant procedure such as treatment for gum disease or bone grafting to replace missing bone. When you do have additional procedures performed, you will likely be prescribed antibiotics to ensure you heal properly.

Your mouth harbors tons of bacteria and this can lead to an infection. When you have a dental procedure done, especially minimally invasive ones, the bacteria can enter into the wound or surgical site and cause a bacterial infection. If the bacteria enter your bloodstream, it can make you sick, spread the infection to other areas of the body, and even cause implant failure.

Patients who are high risk will receive antibiotics before the procedure to reduce the amount of bacteria growth. Many patients will be able to have the procedure without the worry of medication. If you are worried about whether or not you need medication, speak with Dr. Song in our Torrance office today.

If you have been considered a low risk patient, then you may still need to receive antibiotics to get rid of the bacteria in your mouth. Most dental implant procedures are successful, but failure is possible, especially when infection does arise. Infections can reduce healing and lead to the implants needing to be permanently removed from your mouth.

Who Are High and Low Risk Patients?

Seniors and others who have a weakened immune system along with patients who are over or underweight, diabetic, or smokers are considered to be high risk patients. The American Dental Association and the American Heart Association recommend that patients are provided with preventative antibiotics when they suffer from a higher risk of infection. In addition, patients who have heart problems or conditions should receive antibiotics as well.

The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery does suggest that patients who have had recent surgery receive antibiotics. It is no longer routinely recommended to provide orthopedic patients with antibiotics.

Findings Based on Research

It is a highly debated topic about whether or not patients who are low to moderate risk should receive antibiotics for their dental implant surgery procedure. There are some concerns that often arise from what the side effects may be down to allergic reactions and a built-up tolerance to the medication.

Research studies that have been conducted did find that patients who took antibiotics prior to their dental implant procedure received benefits of doing so. It was reported that the study patients received two grams of amoxicillin before the procedure and they experienced implant success.

The team that conducted the study also determined that patients did not experience early implant loss, but there was no direct evidence to show what medication worked the best or the true benefits that patients would receive.

Dr. Song and Your Reno, NV Dental Implant Consultation

If you want to receive dental implants, it is important that you speak with Dr. Song. Our team is committed to answering all of your questions and addressing any concerns that you may have. While some patients do need to receive antibiotics prior to their dental implant procedure, not all do. This means that medication may or may not be the proper choice for you and this is why it is important to speak with Dr. Song.

When you come in for your dental implant consultation, do make sure that you let Dr. Song know whether or not you have experienced infections after procedures – both medical and dental. You should also let him know whether or not you take any current medications or vitamins.

Dr. Song will work closely with you and determine your individual need for antibiotics both before and after surgery. If you have a history of infections, then you will receive antibiotics before the surgery.

Once you and Dr. Song have spoken about your options, you will be able to make the best choice for you and your health. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Song in Reno, call Access Dental Care today.