Joint replacement infections can be instigated by severe gum disease

Most surgeons and dentists, including Dr. Jamie Sands and Dr. Jason Sands, strongly recommend a thorough dental examination for presence of tooth and gum infection prior to joint replacement surgeries.

Periodontal disease—also known as gum disease—is a commonly occurring oral infection of the adult population (80% of adults are affected). The presence of gum disease can cause bacteria to lodge in your new joint replacement, causing infection there which can adversely affect the success of this complicated operation.

Periodontal disease does not often prevent symptoms until the problem is very advanced. At Smiles By Sands, we will examine and evaluate any periodontal issues and recommend a course of treatment that will eliminate the infection before your surgery, so that it can’t affect the eventual success of your joint replacement.
If you haven’t seen a dentist in a year or more, you should consider making an appointment with Dr. Jamie Sands and Dr. Jason Sands for a thorough evaluation of your teeth and gums before surgery.

Aside from periodontal disease, conditions that should be treated before a joint replacement is attempted include:

• Cavities
• Abscessed teeth
• Broken teeth or fillings
• Loose teeth

 

At Smiles By Sands, we can evaluate your current dental health, deal with any existing infections, decay, or other issues, and set you on a course that will help get you ready for a successful joint replacement operation.

If you have any questions about infection in joint replacements, or need to schedule an evaluation before your scheduled surgery, please call our office at 818-766-6121.