Nonsurgical endodontic procedures for the patient at risk for infective endocarditis and other systemic disorders

Abstract

In order to reduce the likelihood of bacteremia, a predisposing factor in endocarditis, the American Heart Association has recently published new prophylaxis guidelines. They were issued for any dental procedure that may cause hemorrhage. There were, however, no guidelines established specifically for nonsurgical endodontic treatment. This article discusses the relationship between endodontic treatment, bacteremia, and infective endocarditis. Patients who are at risk for infective endocarditis are identified. Antibacteremia procedures are discussed which include local degerming in conjunction with systemic antibiotic administration. Guidelines are proposed for nonsurgical endodontic procedures for patients at risk for infective endocarditis and other systemic disorders that can be affected by bacteremia. In order to reduce the likelihood of bacteremia, a predisposing factor in endocarditis, the American Heart Association has recently published new prophylaxis guidelines. They were issued for any dental procedure that may cause hemorrhage. There were, however, no guidelines established specifically for nonsurgical endodontic treatment. This article discusses the relationship between endodontic treatment, bacteremia, and infective endocarditis. Patients who are at risk for infective endocarditis are identified. Antibacteremia procedures are discussed which include local degerming in conjunction with systemic antibiotic administration. Guidelines are proposed for nonsurgical endodontic procedures for patients at risk for infective endocarditis and other systemic disorders that can be affected by bacteremia.