Infections in joint replacements can be
instigated by severe gum problems
 A thorough dental
examination for presence of tooth and gum infection is recommended prior
to joint replacement.
Periodontal disease is a commonly occurring oral infection of the
adult population (80% of adults are affected) destroying the bony
support of the teeth. This infection slowly progresses over the lifetime
of the patient and is often manifested in the advanced stage in the
senior population.
Because of the lack of any discomfort to the patient until total loss
of bony support to the teeth, many adults are unaware that they have
this infection. However, the bacteria from this bone destroying disease,
especially in the more advanced cases, has been attributed to possible
infection of joint replacements.
Candidates for joint replacements who have not been seen by a dentist
in over a year should be considered for a thorough dental evaluation of
their teeth and gums before surgery.
Depending on the severity of the infection, treatment of gum
infections and tooth abscesses may take from two weeks to two months
before the patient reaches adequate health before surgery.
If you have any questions about infection in joint replacements,
please call our office.
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