If you are taking a blood thinner, make sure we know and have reviewed specific instructions for your appointment. Dr. Wolf will generally recommend the following pending a medical consult with your physician.
If you take aspirin daily, don’t take any 3-5 days before surgery. It can cause bleeding.
If you are on Coumadin or blood thinners, Dr. Wolf or your physician will instruct you. Most patients do not stop their Coumadin for periodontal surgery. You will need an INR reading 1 week and 1 day before surgery appointments (INR of 2 – 2.5 is acceptable).
Prophylactic antibiotics for dental treatment is not generally recommended, however, if you have a prosthetic joint replacement that is less than 2 years old, your orthopedic surgeon may recommend taking an antibiotic before dental treatment. We will review your specific needs before surgery.
In the past people with heart murmur were given antibiotics before dental visits to prevent an infection in the heart valves. We now know that the bacteria in your mouth can enter you body from simple things like eating or brushing your teeth. Researchers have looked at this question and have limited the recommendation for pre-dental antibiotic prophylaxis to patients with:
Individuals suffering from diabetes, especially uncontrolled diabetics, have a higher risk of developing bacterial infections. These infections may impair your ability to process insulin, resulting in greater difficulty with controlling your diabetes. Dr. Wolf must know your history and the current status of your condition. You can help resist periodontal infection and improve healing by controlling your blood sugar levels.
Dr. Wolf will give you specific instructions for insulin and food intake depending on the length and extent of your treatment.
If you have any questions regarding your prescribed medications, please contact us.