Special Conditions
Blood Thinners
If you are taking a blood thinner, make sure we know and have
reviewed specific instructions for your appointment. Drs. Wunderlich & Chang will
generally recommend the following pending a medical consult with your
physician.
Aspirin
If you take aspirin daily, please continue to do so. Please let Drs. Wunderlich and Chang know.
Coumadin
If you are on Coumadin or blood thinners, Drs. Wunderlich & Chang or your
physician will instruct you. Most patients do not stop their Coumadin
for periodontal surgery. You will need an INR reading 1 day prior surgery appointments (INR of 2 – 2.5 is acceptable).
Prosthetic Joint Replacement
Prophylactic antibiotics for dental treatment is not
generally recommended, however, if you have a prosthetic joint
replacement that is less than 2 years old, your orthopedic surgeon may
recommend taking an antibiotic before dental treatment. We will review
your specific needs before surgery.
Heart Valves & Heart Murmur
In the past people with heart murmur were given antibiotics
before dental visits to prevent an infection in the heart valves. We now
know that the bacteria in your mouth can enter you body from simple
things like eating or brushing your teeth. Researchers have looked at
this question and have limited the recommendation for pre-dental
antibiotic prophylaxis to patients with:
- Artificial Heart Valve Replacement
- History of Bacterial Endocarditis
- Weak Immune system in some cases.
Diabetes & Hypoglycemia
Individuals suffering from diabetes, especially uncontrolled
diabetics, have a higher risk of developing bacterial infections. These
infections may impair your ability to process insulin, resulting in
greater difficulty with controlling your diabetes. Drs. Wunderlich & Chang must know
your history and the current status of your condition. You can help
resist periodontal infection and improve healing by controlling your
blood sugar levels.
Drs. Wunderlich & Chang will give you specific instructions for insulin and
food intake depending on the length and extent of your treatment.
- Ask your physician for your last HbA1c- it shows average
sugar levels
- Make sure you eat before your appointment
- Check your blood sugar before your appointment (better to be
high)
- Let us know immediately if you feel any symptoms of low blood
sugar.
Osteoporosis
If you have any questions regarding your prescribed medications,
please contact us.