Premedication Before Dental Appointments
Many patients are advised that they should taking antibiotics prior to undergoing certain dental appointments – to premedicate themselves. What is premedication? Premedication is a preventative step of taking antibiotics before dental procedures that can cause gum or bone bleeding such as a cleaning, extraction, root canal, deep cleaning, etc. Why do medical and dental professionals suggest this extra step?
We all have bacteria in our mouths which can enter the bloodstream through exposed areas of our oral mucosa during dental procedures. Our bodies are mostly a bacteria-free zone, although there are certain areas within the body that contain bacteria such as the mouth, intestines and surface of the skin. These areas are all protected by a layer of epithelial cells which form a protective barrier to keep the bacteria from entering the bloodstream. During a dental cleaning or other dental procedure, the protective lining may be disturbed and can provide […]