Just thought I'd throw this out there..... Just had my teeth cleaned (my EP approved it). The hygienist was surprised that I did not require antibiotics, my EP said no need, as I have no valve issues.
She was amazed at how little additional bleeding there was... impressive!
Good news.
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iris1205
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I'm on warfarin and have my teeth cleaned twice a year without any bleeding, last time my INR was 2.8, so not sure why she expects bleeding, and why antibiotics?
But I am very happy you are getting on well with Rivaroxaban
When I had implants done earlier this year my dental surgeon gave me an antibiotic to drink. He said that dental procedures can cause heart infections and since that was the last thing I wanted I dutifully drank it. X
I have a dentist as a client and she said that they usually take longer to clean teeth for people who are on ACs. She'd suggested the antibiotic as well, but I asked my EP who said not necessary as I have no heart disease or valve isssues. I also read somewhere about specifics to the mitral valve....
Last year I saw research which indicated people with poor dental hygiene increase the risk of heart disease as periodontal diseases.
Several studies have shown that periodontal disease is associated with heart disease. While a cause-and-effect relationship has not yet been proven, research has indicated that periodontal disease increases the risk of heart disease.
Scientists believe that inflammation caused by periodontal disease may be responsible for the association.
Periodontal disease can also exacerbate existing heart conditions. Patients at risk for infective endocarditis may require antibiotics prior to dental procedures. Your periodontist and cardiologist will be able to determine if your heart condition requires use of antibiotics prior to dental procedures.
I have to have a wisdom tooth extracted and anticipate I will be asked to stop my Rivaroxaban at least 24 hours before hand. Does anyone know how much there is an increased risk of a blood clot developing during this time or am I just worrying unnecessarily?
I haven't had to have antibiotics with teeth cleaning but not sure if this will apply with an extraction?
My understanding is the antibiotics are used when there is an underlying heart disease. I would check with your doctor just so you can be comfortable with your choice.
Re bleeding surely the whole point is that healthy gums NEVER bleed. Mine are not despite three monthly cleaning thanks to years of NHS dentistry ignoring such matters. My private dentist says he can always tell people who have been seeing NHS dentists as thy do not cover gums. Sadly what few teeth I still have often bleed during cleaning.
I recounted elsewhere of the poor young lad who nearly died following botched wisdom tooth extraction when his heart became infected. After three months as inpatient the hospital finally stopped the infection but it has left permanent damage to his heart.
Bob
Not directly relevant but may be of interest…….as part of my lifestyle changes to combat PAF I changed to an holistic dentist earlier this year. Although the programme of work, primarily improving daily teeth care, taking out mercury amalgam and replacing 'soft moveable' fillings with inlays/onlays is extortionately expensive I think it has been worthwhile in terms of taking out one possible influence on AF and preventative measures for the future.
I read somewhere amalgam fillings and gold crowns can cause electrical activity that may affect the heart, the same goes for infection from decayed teeth or bleeding gums - may have been commercial mis-information?!
May be of interest Bryony. Following my Ablation 3 weeks ago, I had to have my two front teeth extracted. They were loosened during the procedure following the general anaesthetic when the intubation tube was put in. In fact I was more distressed about my loose teeth than anything else post-op. Had ablation Tuesday and saw the dentist Friday when she said they needed to come out. Had them out the following Monday. As I am on Rivaroxaban I was a bit concerned about bleeding. Not a problem, so be reassured. Also no antibiotic cover and I have healed well, despite being immunosuppressed as part of my treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.
As a matter of interest to those of you on Rivaroxaban, my dental hygienist says that before she can do a "deep clean" she requires a letter from my GP to say there is no risk of a serious bleed. This has come in an advisory she has received from her professional body.
Very distressed that I have lost my teeth, but the up-side is that the ablation has had a dramatic effect on my life. No symptoms of AF and I feel like my old self.
If it makes you feel better next, January Ive got to to have the remains of a tooth extracted, the crown came off a few days ago, so I will definitely be on anti biotics , Oh its great to be alive with all the meds I am taking to keep me ticking over.
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