I have an artificial joint. Do I need to take antibiotics before a dental procedure?

Since 2012, according to the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons, the answer is no for most people. If you have had a joint replacement and taken antibiotics before dental work in the past, you may not need to make a trip to the pharmacy before your next procedure. Some patients have certain underlying conditions or a history of previously infected artificial joints and perhaps may be advised by their dentist or orthopedic surgeon to take antibiotics before any dental procedure where bleeding may be anticipated. For sure, you do not need to take antibiotics to have something “looked at”. For more information visit the ADA resource: https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/a/joint-replacement