Dental Procedures not a Risk Factor for Artificial Joint Infections

There has been much debate for decades as to whether dental procedures increase the risk of infection in those who have had total joint replacements. A new prospective, case-controlled study of patients at the Mayo Clinic has found that neither high-risk or low-risk dental procedures performed within 6 months to two year of hospital admission increased the risk of infection. Antibiotic prophylaxis prior to dental procedures did not lower risk of infections, either.

PositiveTip: If you have had a joint replacement, a healthy lifestyle may be your best protection from infections.