Controversies in the prevention of infective endocarditis related to dental procedures.

There is a long historical relationship between dental procedures and infective endocarditis. Yet despite the availability and wide use over the past three decades of inexpensive, relatively safe antibiotics before dental work, the incidence of endocarditis has not decreased. Can any conclusion be drawn about the merits of antibiotic prophylaxis around the time of dental procedures? If so, is there a preferred regimen? This article outlines the historical developments that have led to current recommendations and presents a critique of current opinion on the advisability of specific programs to prevent cardiac infections related to professional dental work.