Pre-medication for Heart Valves and Prosthetic Joints

Individuals with congenital or valvular heart conditions such as rheumatic murmur, mitral valve prolapse, prosthetic valves, etc., or prosthetic joint replacement are at risk for bacterial endocarditis or joint infections after certain dental procedures. These infections are serious and remain difficult to treat despite advances in antibiotic therapy. Measures by physicians and dentists to identify and properly pre-medicate patients at risk are extremely important.

If you have a condition, as indicated above, that potentially puts you in a risk category, here's what you need to do:

• Unless we have a written report form your physician indicating otherwise, it is your responsibilty to take your physician's prescribed antibiotic one hour before all visits to our office.

• If you arrive for an appointment without being pre-medicated, we will not be able to treat you and we will have to bill you for a broken appointment.

• If uncertain about your status, please arrange for a consultation with your physician.

These requirements are for your own welfare and will avoid unnecessary confusion and lost time at our office. Should you have any questions about our position on this important medical issue, please call.

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