Kickas.org Forums Treatments, Drugs and Alternatives Anti TNF and other biological medications Dentist

I've just recently started Remicade and haven't been to the Dentist since starting. Just wondered if anyone takes preventative antibiotics for Dental appointments to reduce infection risks. My Doc told me not to worry but just wanted to get 2nd opinions from you all in the real AS world.

I didn't, and wasn't advised by my dentist or GP to take antibiotics prior to going to the dentist. Didn't have any problems, thank goodness. I think if I was having major dental work I may have pushed the issue further, but just for a simple cleaning, I seemed to be fine. If you're prone to infections, I would have a chat with the dentist beforehand and let them know your situation. Hope that helps!

Hi Greg,... I think your doc is right and you don't need to worry about it. I'm on Remicade and have just recently had a root canal without antibiotics and had no problem at all. I did advise the endodontist of my current list of meds and lowered immunity beforehand.

Definitely a good question tho!
mig

Streptococcus mutans (cricetus, rattus, ferus, sobrinus) is quite common and many people are required to take antibiotics before dental work.

Tooth trauma and root infection do trigger autoimmune conditions due to local infection. Mig and Megan know more about biologics than me.

Ali

If it is minor dental work like cleaning or fillings no. If it is major work like intense root cleaning, root canal, or teeth pulling I would suggest antibiotics. I was taking Humira and was on antibiotics 24 hours before to one week after the procedure. It ended up being 3 months because the dentist opened my sinus cavity. But anyway if it is major work I would suggest it.

Tim

I just had dental surgery. I took amoxicillin before the surgery & for the week after. I did not stop taking Enbrel (my rheumy said it wasn't necessary). I also have valvular heart disease so there was no question about prophylactic antibiotics. I had a bone graft put into my jaw. No complications but still hurts. I am slow to heal b/c I have abnormal collagen (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome). I have never taken antibiotics before other dentist appointments and have not had any problems.

Talking about dentists - I just broke a tooth - a big back molar. Doesn't hurt too much but it's sharp and is shredding my tongue. Called my dentist and left a message but haven't heard back. Finally, in desperation this evening, because having a sore tongue on top of the rest seems like just too much, I took my jewellery making diamond files and filed the broken tooth moderately smooth so it won't get my tongue any more. Wow - I'm getting pretty handy. There was a time I wouldn't have dared do this in case I caused myself any pain!!! I didn't know what pain was back then.

Absolutely unnecessary to pre-medicate just for being on a biologic drug.