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Do You Really Need Antibiotics Before the Dentist If You Have a Joint Replacement?

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If you’ve had a joint replacement and are scheduled for a dental appointment at Hart Family Dentistry in Marietta, GA, you might be wondering: “Do I need to take antibiotics before my cleaning or dental work?”

It’s a common and valid concern—especially with mixed messages coming from dentists within the Atlanta area. While some orthopedic surgeons still recommend lifelong preventive antibiotics, leading health organizations like the American Dental Association (ADA) and American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) now advise otherwise for most healthy patients. Let’s clear things up.

The Old Thinking: “Better Safe Than Sorry”

Historically, patients with artificial joints were routinely prescribed antibiotics before dental procedures. The fear? That oral bacteria might enter the bloodstream and infect the joint, leading to a periprosthetic joint infection (PJI).

But newer research has changed the game:

  • Oral bacteria can enter your bloodstream during everyday activities like brushing and flossing—not just during dental work.
  • There is no strong evidence linking dental cleanings or restorations to joint infections in healthy individuals.

That means a one-size-fits-all approach no longer makes sense.

The Current Guidelines: ADA & AAOS Recommendations

After an in-depth review, the ADA and AAOS released a joint position stating: “Preventive antibiotics are not necessary for most people with joint replacements undergoing dental procedures.”

This is especially true if:

  • Your joint replacement is fully healed
  • You’re in good general health (not immunocompromised)
  • You’ve never had a previous joint infection

Why Some Surgeons Still Recommend Antibiotics

Even with updated guidelines, some orthopedic surgeons continue to prescribe antibiotics “just in case.” Why?

  • A conservative, better-safe-than-sorry mindset
  • Concerns about medical-legal liability
  • Personal clinical experiences with rare joint infections
  • Delayed awareness or alignment with evolving research

This can create mixed messages—something we see often right here in Marietta and the greater Atlanta area.

What Should You Do?

If you’re unsure whether you need antibiotics before your dental visit, here’s what we recommend:

  1. Talk to your orthopedic surgeon to understand if their recommendation is personalized for your medical history.
  2. Share their guidance with us—we’re happy to coordinate care.
  3. Let Hart Family Dentistry guide you using the latest evidence, combined with your specific health profile.

We pride ourselves on providing personalized, evidence-based care for every patient. Contact us today to schedule your next visit.

Quick Facts: Antibiotics & Joint Replacements

  • Routine antibiotics are not needed for most healthy patients with joint replacements.
  • Dental cleanings are not proven to increase the risk of joint infection.
  • Everyday brushing and flossing expose you to more bacteria than dental visits.
  • The ADA recommends an individualized approach, not a lifelong blanket prescription.

Your Next Steps at Hart Family Dentistry

For most healthy individuals with hip, knee, or shoulder replacements, antibiotics before dental treatment are no longer necessary. The best way to protect your joint and your overall health is to maintain excellent oral hygiene and keep up with your routine dental visits.

At Hart Family Dentistry, we stay current with the latest research and collaborate with your full medical team to provide safe, informed, and coordinated care.

Still have questions? Our team is happy to review your health history and give you peace of mind. Call us at 770.215.2944 or book an appointment online!