[Prevention of Infective endocarditis]

Abstract

Indications of antibiotic prophylaxis are restricted to the patients at highest risk of infective endocarditis undergoing at-risk dental procedures. Guidelines emphasize the importance of daily non-specific oral and cutaneous hygiene. Restorative dentistry, endodontic and periodontal therapy can be performed in patients at high risk of endocarditis, provided careful follow-up is effective. The use of dental implants is no longer contra-indicated in patients at high risk of endocarditis, but the decision be based on an individual analysis of risk factors of implant failure. Evaluations of practices show that prevention of endocarditis is not sufficiently implemented. All health professionals should be aware of the importance of prevention measures of heathcare-associated infective endocarditis. Endocarditis prophylaxis cards are made available to patients and health professionals to make them aware of the endocarditis prophylaxis.