Heather Lawson-Myers - TOOTH TALK DENTAL SURGEONS require each new patient to complete a medical history form. This form should be updated during regular visits. The Dental Surgeon should ensure that the patient is fully aware of all attendant health conditions, especially heart conditions.
Any defect of the heart makes that organ more susceptible to the accumulation of bacteria. Persons with certain types of heart murmurs for example, mitral valve, prolapse, heart defects due to rheumatic fever, other heart diseases and deformities are particularly prone to this bacterial accumulation. Such bacterial accumulation may result in inflammation of the heart, resulting in bacterial endocarditis -- a life threatening condition.
In an effort to decrease the risk of developing bacterial endocarditis, antibiotics are prescribed. In addition, the patient can assist in reducing the risk of bacterial infection by maintaining good oral hygiene and the wearing of proper fitting dentures. Any oral infection or mouth ulcer may result in bacteremia (bacterial infection).
Antibiotic medication taken before the commencement of dental treatment to prevent bacteremia from forming is referred to as antibiotic prophylaxis. This is necessary for most dental procedures including professional teeth cleaning, gum treatment and extractions. Should this prophylaxis not be applied, bacteria from the mouth may enter the bloodstream and lodge in the defective part of the heart.
Dental Surgeons should be apprised of the patients' health conditions though they may privately consult with the physician to ensure that patients receive proper dental care. Patients' failure to furnish adequate information could make the difference between life and death.
Dr. Heather-Dawn Lawson Myers is the president of the Jamaica Dental Association.
