Despite the inconvenience of a trip to the dentist, most people don’t anticipate problems occurring due to improper treatment. Sadly, bacterial endocarditis can cause significant health problems that can even result in death.
In case you visit an irresponsible dentist, it’s important to understand what bacterial endocarditis is and how improper dental procedures can lead to the infection.
If you or a loved one suffer serious injuries or harm after a dental procedure, please don’t hesitate to contact me by phone at 864-235-4999 or through our contact form, which you can find by clicking the button below.
What is Bacterial Endocarditis?
Endocarditis is a life-threatening infection that inflames the linings of the heart muscle and valves. Unsterilized dental instruments and negligent care can result in previously unharmful bacteria to dislodge from the mouth, enter your bloodstream and attach to the heart valves that can lead to heart disease as well as heart failure.
If you experience one of the following symptoms following a cleaning, tooth extraction, dental surgery or another dental procedure, please consult with a medical professional:
- Heart murmur
- Chills
- Night sweats
- Joint pain
- Nausea
- Full feeling in the upper left part of your abdomen
- Unintentional weight loss
- Swollen feet, legs or abdomen
- Shortness of breath
- Bloody urine
- Enlarged spleen
- Tender red or purple spots below the skin of fingers or toes
Infection Protocols
Dentists have a responsibility to properly treat their patients. The factors that lead to bacterial endocarditis are easy to prevent. Unfortunately, some dentists don’t follow infection protocols which can lead to serious heart complications and even death.
All reusable dental tools such as scalers or scrapers should be sterilized in accordance with infection control standards outlined by the CDC. Syringes and polisher heads should always be disposed of after each use.
When dentists fail to uphold these standards, they should be held accountable by a medical malpractice lawyer with experience handling endocarditis cases. Please don’t hesitate to contact us through the contact form below.