I’m not sure which dentist is right. I want to get a few dental implants in order to retain an upcoming denture. In my medical history, the first dentist saw I had a hip replacement a few years before. He said because of that, I’d need to pre-medicate with antibiotics before the implant procedure. The second dentist I had a consult with said it wouldn’t matter. Which dentist is correct?
Misty
Dear Misty,
It’s not a matter of correct and incorrect as much as a preference issue. Until about 2012 it was the standard recommendation. The thinking was without antibiotics you are at risk of getting an infection in your hip joint. However, in 2012 the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons said there is is no evidence to back up those concerns.
However some dentists still prefer to do it, even with patients who do not have a hip replacement, dentists will sometimes recommend it out of concern for an infection in the bone surrounding the implant.
It’s up to you which dentist you see. More important than whether or not you get pre-medicated is who places your dental implant.
Finding an Implant Dentist
There are two stages of placing dental implants. The first is the surgery. The second is the restoration. It’s imperative your dentist has invested in post-doctoral training for dental implants. This is an advanced procedure and dental school isn’t enough.
Additionally, you need to know whether or not the dentist or an oral surgeon will be placing the implant. Either way, they need to be experienced in implant surgery. Don’t hesitate to ask how many implants they’ve done and what their success rate is.
Benefits of Securing Your Denture with Dental Implants
It’s great that you’re securing your dentures. This will have incredible benefits for you. First, they’ll be secure. When you wear dentures without anchoring them, there is nothing to keep them from slipping out. However, the biggest benefit is the prevention of facial collapse. Not only will facial collapse make you look years older, but it will also make you a dental cripple. Getting dental implants prevents that.
This blog is brought to you by Kalamazoo Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Susan Dennis.