“Do I need antibiotics after a bone graft?”
I will have a bone graft. Do I need antibiotics after a bone graft?
5 Answers
Matthew Bronk
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon | Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Marion, North Carolina
Antibiotics during (IV or start them 2 days before surgery, if not doing IV sedation) and for a short period after a bone graft (I prescribe abx for 5 days following grafts), is prudent in my opinion. There is some debate as to whether or not to give them, but I think that it's prudent to prevent graft failure due to infection. Also, it's best to give a narrow spectrum (ie penicillin or Clindamycin) rather than something that covers bugs outside the mouth. Amoxicillin is not necessary. Dr Bronk Board Certified OMS
A short course of antibiotics is usually indicated after implant placement or procedures associated with implant placement (sinus lift or bone grafting). If a patient is given a prescription, they must have it filled and take all the medication according to the directions on the label.
Do I need antibiotics after a bone graft? In my opinion, not every bone graft requires management with an antibiotic afterwards, especially in an otherwise healthy patient. The size of the graft and the technique employed has more to do with risk of infection than having the graft itself. There is also a downside to taking antibiotics when not absolutely necessary. If the risk of infection from the treatment is low, the adverse effects with taking an antibiotic would be disruption of your G.I microbiome and the creation of resistant bacteria. Antibiotic use should be considered judiciously, and if given prophylactically, it should be in a higher risk situation to help a patients immune system prevent a post treatment infection. Sincerely, James J Wu, DDS, FRCD(C) Clinical Assistant Professor Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Boston University School of Dental Medicine Mentor and Scientific Advisor Kois Center, Seattle, WA Consultant and Trainer ReNEW Dental, Tewksbury, MA
We prescribe antibiotics to all of our patients needing surgery. There is always a risk o infection with any surgery that is performed.
Yes. Better to take the Antibiotics prophylactically now, than wait to have an infection then start it
