An update on the controversies in bacterial endocarditis of oral origin

The aim of this review was to evaluate the evidence implicating dental procedures in bacterial endocarditis (BE) development and the basis for antimicrobial prophylaxis (AP).

In this article, the literature is reviewed and meaningful findings about epidemiology, pathogenesis, and AP guidelines for BE of oral origin are highlighted. Available results are used to formulate clinical recommendations for the dental practitioner.

The nature of dental procedures that cause bacteremia, patients at risk for BE, and the effectiveness of AP guidelines, continue to be points of controversy. There appears to be further evidence to support the important role of oral health status in the prevention of BE of dental origin.

One objective of the dental practitioner in caring for patients at risk for BE should be to promote oral health care. There are no hard data on which to scientifically base the need for AP in patients at risk for BE. However, it would appear prudent, at least from the medicolegal perspective, to provide AP, at least to persons with previous BE or prosthetic heart valves and to those undergoing oral surgery, periodontal treatment, or implant placement.