How to Take Antibiotics for Dental Procedures After Joint Replacements

Joint replacement surgery can be a life-changing experience for those suffering from the pain of worn and arthritic joints. However, the surgery comes with the risk of developing an infection in your new joint. According to both the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the American Dental Association, all patients should take antibiotics prior to high-risk dental procedures performed during the first two years after joint replacement surgery. Certain patients will need to always take antibiotics prior to high-risk dental services.

Instructions

• 1

  Determine if you are considered a high-risk patient. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reports that you are considered high-risk if you've had an infection in your artificial joint, you have inflammatory arthritis, you have hemophilia or type 1 diabetes, you are malnourished or have a suppressed immune system or you have or previously had cancer.

• 2

  Find out if your dental procedure is considered high-risk. According to the American Dental Association, the following services are considered high-risk: extractions, periodontic and some endodontic procedures, implant placement or teeth replantation, placement of orthodontic bands, specialized anesthetic injections or dental cleanings with anticipated bleeding.

• 3

  Take two grams of amoxicillin, cephalexin or cephradine by mouth one hour before your dental procedure, as per the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

• 4

  Substitute two grams of ampicillin or one gram of cefazolin by injection if you cannot take oral medication, reports the American Dental Association.

• 5

  Use 600 milligrams of clindamycin by mouth or by injection if you are allergic to penicillin, in accordance with the American Dental Association's guidelines.