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Question:
In December I went to the dentist and had a root canal. Two days later at night I started running a high fever. The third day I went to work and had to be taken by ambulance to the hospital for because I had developed a staph infection. I had been treated for staph infections before I found out that I am also diabetic.
After spending 6 hours in the emergency room on an IV, the doctors let me go home on the condition that I would see my primary physician and take the prescribed antibiotics. The doctors in the ER told me that pennicilin would not kill bacteria in the mouth and gave me a much stronger antibiotic.
I had to go to the dentist today to have a root canal done on another tooth. I told him I had talked to my primary physican about whether or not to take antibiotics when I had dental work done since I had been treated for staph infections following cataract surgery and by my gynecologist. My doctor said anytime I had any kind of "digging in the mouth" that it would be necessary to take an antibiotic but I probably would not need one for just cleaning of the teeth.
My dentist let me know that he did not agree with the information the doctor said. The dentist also did not seem happy that I had discussed this with my doctor. What do I need to do to convince a dentist that I am susceptible to staph infections and need antibiotics. I even told him that when I had surgery 6 weeks ago that I was given antibiotics to prevent staph infection. ...Visitor from TX
Answer:
First, you fire your dentist and find one that's more competent. Follow the
advice of your physician. With your diabetes, you are at risk for
infections, especially of the valves in your heart...during and after dental
treatment!
Your dentist should be ashamed for not knowing proper medical requirements for people with your health issues. I would also consult with an endocrinologist regarding the treatment of your diabetes. It sounds like
it's not being controlled well. You need more physician help.
Editorial Staff
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