Current Location: Delta Dental Home Page > EBICP > High-risk cardiac conditions
September 6, 2010
Infective Endocarditis (IE) is a rare, but life-threatening condition where bacteria colonize on tissues within the heart. Since the bacteria often associated with this condition are similar to bacteria commonly found in the oral cavity, it was once thought that dental procedures such extractions or dental cleanings may have provided an entry for these bacteria into the bloodstream and allow them to infect susceptible heart tissues.

Recent research, however, has concluded that the greatest risk for bacteria that could lead to IE was due to routine daily activities, such as tooth brushing, flossing, use of toothpicks, use of water irrigation devices and chewing food. The evidence supported that emphasis on maintaining good oral health and eliminating oral disease would decrease the frequency of infection from these daily routine activities.

Recent studies have also more clearly defined the conditions associated with a higher risk of IE. They are:

•  The presence of a prosthetic cardiac valve
•  A history of previous IE
•  Congenital heart disease
•  Unrepaired cyanotic heart disease including palliative shunts and conduits
•  Repaired congenital defects where a prosthetic material is used
•  Repaired congential heart disease where residual defects still occur
•  Cardiac transplant recipients

These conditions still warrant the use of prophylactic antibiotics prior to dental procedures and also identify individuals where maintenance of good oral health is especially important.

Delta Dental of Wisconsin's Evidence-Based Integrated Care Plan (EBICP) offers additional cleanings for persons with any of the above-listed risk factors for IE. Click the link below to find out if your group plan includes EBICP and to sign up for these important additional benefits.

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EBICP benefits for persons with high-risk cardiac conditions

With an indicator for high-risk cardiac conditions, a participant is eligible for up to two additional dental visits in a benefit year for adult prophylaxis or periodontal maintenance. Coverage will be at the group-contracted benefit level, with the additional frequency allowance being the only change. There is no end date on this additional coverage. There is no age requirement and the patient may be the subscriber, spouse or other covered dependent.

Read our white paper to learn more about high-risk cardiac conditions and oral health.