← Return to TKR #2..... Lessons I am learning

Discussion

TKR #2..... Lessons I am learning

Joint Replacements | Last Active: Feb 3, 2023 | Replies (64)

Comment receiving replies
@4russcoll

I had to have 2 teeth removed after TKR: 1 at 8 weeks and another at 12. Emphasis on “had to”. One due to pain and risk of infection the other due to pain and probable infection.
No problems w knee infection. Both times took 2G amoxicillin prior per ortho surgeon followed by a week of lower dose amoxicillin prescribed by dentist. There appears to be various interpretations within the surgical and dental community regarding when dental procedures become “safe” after TKR and the need for Amoxicillin. I consider the antibiotic to be in the “better safe than sorry” category and was very happy to use.

Jump to this post


Replies to "I had to have 2 teeth removed after TKR: 1 at 8 weeks and another at..."

I had a similar situation. Right after my first TKR in 2019, I discovered that I had a tooth infection. My surgeon and my dentist got together and I had to take an antibiotic one hour before the dentist appointment.
I have to continue that regimen every time I am having dental work. It’s especially important before a cleaning when the hygienist digs out the junk from around the gum line.
I had my second TKR in 2020.
My knees can be a bit stiff at times, but at least I don’t have the awful pain anymore!

I wanted to thank all in this forum for their help with my concern about having a root canal 5 days shy of 3 months after knee replacement. I did some research and found a specialist a four hour drive away who does laser root canals. This procedure, according to my research, is supposed to yield less secondary infections. Good news was delivered at my appointment with the specialist. The tooth root looked fine and at this time no root canal is needed. Tooth sensitivity could have been the issue. I wanted everyone to know that the specialist said if you can wait for a year after a joint replacement it’s best, unless, of course, it’s an emergency situation. I’m super relieved and wanted to pass along this info. Good luck to all going thru knee replacements..