Endocarditis prophylaxis for patients with periodontal disease

Since periodontal disease provides a portal of entry for oral microorganisms during such common events as toothbrushing and mastication, treatment must resolve the inflammatory response if the teeth are to be maintained safely in patients at risk of infectious endocarditis. Prophylactic antibiotics should be administered during periodontal treatment such as debridement of the periodontal pocket and surgical repair of anatomic defects, as well as during oral hygiene training. If optimal periodontal health is achieved and maintained, the risk of systemic bacteremia is minimal.