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

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?

Doctor Answers 5

October 30th, 2016

Before

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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.

Andrew Gear, MD


Charlotte Plastic Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 29 reviews

October 30th, 2016

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

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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.

Learn more: http://www.bostonplasticsurgeryspecialists.com/services/breast-surgery/breast-augmentation/

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS
October 30th, 2016

Not effective

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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.

Nathan Eberle, MD, DDS
October 29th, 2016

Antibiotics

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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 

November 10th, 2016

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

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

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD
Dominican Republic Plastic Surgeon
4.6 out of 5 stars 441 reviews

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.