Root Canal

[Elgato]

I had my Aortic valve replaced June of this year. This week I suddenly developed a toothache in a rear molar. Much to my surprise the dentist said that I would need a Root Canal.
The high risk of dental work is bad enough but a Root Canal appears to carry the initial surgery risk along with long term toxicity. As usual I try to do a lot of research before proceeding with
a recommended procedure. There are a lot of articles that contend that a Root Canal tooth is not actually sterile and continues to emit toxins and bacteria as long as it is in place. This looks like it could the worst case scenario for someone with an artificial valve. Maybe an extraction is a better choice.
Have any of you had Root Canals performed after valve surgery? If so, did you notice any additional health issues? Did your cardio or dentist stress any additional risks or options?
Comments and input appreciated.
Thank You
Tom

 

[epstns]

I have several root canals, but IIRC they were all done prior to valve surgery. Neither my dentist nor any of my cardio specialists seemed in the least bit concerned about it.

I am more diligent than the average bear when it comes to my dental health. I see my dentist for exams and cleaning 4 times per year, and pre-medicate with 600 mg of clindamycin before any procedure that is at all invasive. As long as we keep me infection-free, there should be no added risk to having had the root canals.

 

[Jkm7]

I was not permitted to have any dental work done for at least six months post op, not even a cleaning. My surgeon required a full dental check just before my surgery to be sure there was no infection or work that had to be done prior to the surgery and my dentist had to send him a written report. I would suggest you definitely check with your surgeon and cardio prior to a root canal. There may be no choice but to do something about the tooth immediately if it is a cause for infection but good to consult with all first. Best Wishes.

 

[dick0236]

Have any of you had Root Canals performed after valve surgery? If so, did you notice any additional health issues? Did your cardio or dentist stress any additional risks or options?
Comments and input appreciated.
Thank You
Tom

I have had a couple of root canals done in the past 10-15 years with no problem. Other than the normal pre-med amoxicilin, there where no extra precautions taken.......and there where no long term issues. I am not sure if the dentist and cardio had any discussion before the dental work. Since your OHS was recently done, it would be a good idea to pass this by your cardio

 

[aussiemember]

I had to have a root canal two months after a Mitral Valve Replacement because my dentist missed the problem during my dental check up before surgery. I rang my surgeon and he said it would be fine as long as I was properly medicated with antibiotics. I has the root canal done with no problems and all is still well five years later. Good luck with yours!

 

[Cooker]

I have had two since AVR.... take your pre-meds and all will be fine.