Identify one of the two primary indications for antibiotic prophylaxis in dentistry.

• A. For healthy patients before routine cleaning.
• B. For patients with prosthetic heart valves or history of infective endocarditis undergoing invasive dental procedures.
• C. For patients with periodontal disease only.
• D. For caries prevention only.

Answer: (B)

Antibiotic prophylaxis in dentistry aims to prevent infective endocarditis in people at risk when dental procedures can introduce bacteria into the bloodstream. The strongest, widely accepted indications are patients with prosthetic heart valves or a history of infective endocarditis before invasive dental procedures that involve manipulation of the gums or perforation of the oral mucosa. This is why the option describing prophylaxis for those patients undergoing invasive procedures is the best choice. Prophylaxis is not indicated for healthy patients before routine cleaning, nor as a preventive measure for periodontal disease or dental caries in general.