Can you take antibiotics after a dental appointment instead of before?

Question

I had BA done in February. I was prescribed antibiotics to take before my dental cleanings but I completely forgot to do that today before I saw my dentist! Will it still be effective if I take it ASAP as soon as I get home?

Nathan Eberle, MD, DDS, FACS · Answer

While many/most surgeon would say this is not needed(as it really isn't for total knee and hip prosthesis either), IF you actually want a benefit, you need to take the abx at least 1 hour prior to dental work. Taking the medication after won't really do much as the horse is already out of the barn.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear, thanks for your question and provided information as well, you are suposed to take antibiotics before the appointment as suscribed.

Andrew Gear, MD · Answer

You need to take it before.  With tooth extraction, mouth bacteria can enter the blood stream and potentially seed the implant.  The same principle holds true for the antibiotics that are given prior to making an incision for any plastic surgery procedure.  It has to be BEFORE the incision is made.

John Milam Shamoun, MD FACS · Answer

Although not ideal I would take them anyway .

Just take them within 24 hours

There is really no evidenced based literature

To support this treatment either way .

Regards

Dr Shamoun

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

To be effective he should take here prophylactic antibiotics before dental procedure not after.  However since she forgot it is best to take them after and I doubt that you will have a problem.

Can you take antibiotics after a dental appointment instead of before?

Answers (5)

More Breast Augmentation Questions

After I get a Breast Augmentation will my nipples will still point outwards? (photo)

How long after breast augmentation would it be safe to start downhill skiing again?

One breast is lower than the other after breast augmentation

4 weeks post-op, when can I sleep without a sports bra after having Breast Augmentation?

Why do some women not have a crease under the breast after augmentation? (Photos)

Internal stitch ruptured a bit and feeling pain - will the internal wound heal by itself? Or will it have to be sewn together?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS