How do breast implants affect dental care? Are antibiotics necessary for every dental visit?

Question

I consulted with a plastic surgeon who told me that, to minimize capsular contracture risks, I will have to take antibiotics EACH time I go to the dentist for as long as I have breast implants. I did some research on some of the reasoning, and frankly if this is necessary, I feel like implants is a chronic disease that must be managed. Do other surgeons agree or is this over the top?

Jose Telich, MD · Answer

Dear Anon453054 thank you for your question. 
The reasoning behind giving antibiotics to patients with breast implants undergoing dental work is extrapolated from recommendations given to patients with certain heart implants or joint prostheses. Since it is suspected that capsular contracture may derive from infection the goal is to reduce bacterial load as much as possible. 
That being said, evidence is still scarce, I would advice talking at length with your surgeon and discuss the subject.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Opinions vary by surgeon regarding taking antibiotics prior to dental procedures.  The theory behind it is to prevent potential bacteria traveling to the implant leading to an infection as a result of a dental cleaning or procedure.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon and dentist to help decide what is best for you.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Dental cleanings cause a temporary spread of bacteria into the blood stream which can affect prosthetics like hip joints, heart valves, and breast implants. Taking a single dose of antibiotics just prior to a procedure protects these devices from bacterial contamination and biofilm formation. In the case of breast implants, the goal is to keep your scar capsule pliable and soft; that is to say avoiding capsular contracture. Many practitioners don't recommend prophylactic antibiotics, but data show it's a good practice. Breast implants are not a chronic disease.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. Every surgeon is a bit different on how they manage patients. I don't think you need antibiotics for routine cleanings. The only time you will need antibiotics is if your dentist performs a procedure. Speak to you dentist and plastic surgeon for more guidance.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I agree with your surgeon to take one large dose before each dental treatment. There are a lot of bacteria that are stirred up in the mouth, even with a routine cleaning. Some of these bacteria do enter the blood stream and could find their way to your implants.  Many late capsules are from untreated dental exams and work.

How do breast implants affect dental care? Are antibiotics necessary for every dental visit?

Answers (5)

Answer: Breast implants and dental visits

Answer: Breast implants and dental visits

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

How do breast implants affect dental care? Are antibiotics necessary for every dental visit?

Answers (5)

Answer: Breast implants and dental visits

Answer: Breast implants and dental visits

Answer: Implants

Answer: Implants

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.