Is a child with a heart condition at increased risk from infection?
All children with heart conditions should have antibiotic cover at the time of tooth extractions, or other surgery (major or minor) involving the mouth, nose, intestinal organs or genito-urinary systems. This is to prevent bacteria, which may get into the blood at that time, from settling in the abnormal part of the heart and causing serious infection there (called Infective Endocarditis). The precise antibiotic regime varies depending on the procedure, but usually only requires one or two doses of a suitable antibiotic on the day of the procedure (Amoxycillin – known as Amoxyl – is often used). Your cardiologist will advise you about the importance of this for your child and will also be happy to give advice to your dentist or surgeon, on the appropriate antibiotic regime The RCH recommended antibiotic protocol for dental and surgical procedures is available on this website. ‘Protocol’. Dental Health for children with heart conditions Most children with heart problems, who are otherwi
