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Crohn's Disease
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Posted 3/17/2009 10:41 PM (GMT 0)
I went to a new dentist today (haven't been in 7 years) and everything went well. They do want me to ask my doctor if I should take any meds before I go to my next scheduled cleaning. They went ahead and gave me four penicillin as she had a family friend with Crohn's and said he needed to take it before each visit.

Since I haven't been to the dentist since I have been diagnosed, I had no idea if I should have asked my GI. I figured my GI would have said something and I haven't heard anything like that. Has anyone else heard this?
Posted 3/17/2009 11:38 PM (GMT 0)
I have not heard that a person with Crohn's needs antibiotics for routine dental care. If a person is on immunosuppressants, and the dental work might lead to infection, then I could understand the pre-medication.

My dentist and gI said I do not need antibiotics for dental care even when I was on Remicade and Imuran. In fact my GI doesn't want me on antibiotics unless absolutely necessary.

I would check with your GI and then get a note for the dentist providing instructions about premedications if necessary.
Posted 3/18/2009 1:36 AM (GMT 0)
i do , but only for really invasive stuff. its usually just one dose before the appoinment. but then again im special.
Posted 3/18/2009 7:58 AM (GMT 0)
I did hear that root canal treatment can have an effect. My son has just been diagnosed with Crohns and only on Imuran at present, but just before a massive fistulae/abscess flare up he had root canal treatment. Although I dont have any medical proof I honestly believe this dental treatment had something to do with his flareup.
Posted 3/18/2009 11:57 AM (GMT 0)

Ides is correct...for routine cleanings and as long as you are not having any major infection issues you should be fine w/o taking any anti-b's.  If you have had recent surgery then you may need to take some.

The person to ask is the dentist...or your hygienist...your gastro is not going to be as aware as the dentist especially since the dentist is going to be more aware of what procedures you are coming in for.

I know all of this...not because I am genius...but because my wife is a dental hygienist (Has been for 30 years) and we have had this discussion several times...once or twice because of posts similar to yours on this site.

One or two other things...this is where I get up on my soap box...be sure to ask your hygienist if you should, because of the crohns or meds you are on come in more than twice a year.  We all, because of this dd are at greater risk for teeth and gum issues.  The steroids and other drugs can really play a number on our mouths.  SECOND THING....BUT MOST IMPORTANT!!!!!!  ask for them to check your cheeks and gums for signs of cancer....it is becoming more and more common....found early you stand a great chance of being okay....let it go and you could lose your lips, gums, jaw or worse your life.....

 

Final thing....Yes randy you were right also...YOU are special.  lol

hope this helps

Posted 3/18/2009 3:48 PM (GMT 0)
Thanks for you replies.

Hspenser,

Yup, they asked me if I wanted to get checked for oral cancer and I accepted. Can't say that liquid I had to swish in my mouth tasted great, but no cancer here. Both the dentist and hygienist said I was lucky for how straight and good condition my teeth are in. No cavities ever and no braces *knocks on wood* Both the dentist & hygienist want me to ask my GI.

When the hygienist asked how long I had Crohn's she looked confused and went to go ask someone a question. I was worried she saw something that could be Crohn's related, but she just wanted to see if I needed any antibiotics prior to the cleaning.
Posted 3/18/2009 6:23 PM (GMT 0)
Thanks chronie....sounds like your dentist just needs to be a little better informed on crohns....it is not the crohns they base their decisions on ....or at least it shouldn't be...it is or should be based on on if you have an active infection or if you have had surgery recently.  heart conditions...especially heart surgery are especially a "need to know" thing.

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