ok to floss after kidney transplant?

[st789]

Fellow or former transplant patients, I have a question regard flossing your teeth because some advices against it due to possible bleeding and infection.  But flossing is a good way to keep your teeth healthy.  I would like you guys to have input in it.  I am kind of  between in this.  I also remember the coordinator advice against flossing your teeth.  So what do you guys think?  Thanks!

[kelliOR]

Hi st789,

If you don't floss regularly, yes, gums will bleed.  But after getting into the habit of daily flossing, gums become tougher and healthier, and bleeding is not an issue.  Without flossing and regular cleaning, plaque and tartar build up can be a wonderful medium for bacterial growth.  My transplant center has stressed good oral hygiene both pre and post transplant (including flossing).   

Kelli

[Rerun]

Yes, floss your teeth regularly.  If you go to the dentist you will need to be pre-medicated with antibiotics before you go.  Current protocol is Amoxicillin 500mg(tabs).... take 4 tablets 1 hour prior to appointment.

If you are concerned about your dental health start out gently flossing and maybe ask for some antibiotics to be on the safe side.

[okarol]

From: http://www.rheumatology.org/public/factsheets/cyclosporine.asp

"Some patients taking cyclosporine develop swelling of the gums. Brushing and flossing regularly may help to prevent this."

From: http://www.myfortic.com/info/living/health_info.jspusertrack.filter_applied=true&NovaId=2229644967847849642

"People taking immunosuppressive medicines, including myfortic, are at greater risk of getting infections. Taking good care of your teeth and gums will help prevent dental and mouth infections.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing twice a day and cleaning between the teeth with floss or interdental cleaners once each day to remove plaque from all tooth surfaces. Plaque is responsible for tooth decay and gum disease."

From: http://www.kidney.org.uk/Medical-Info/transplant/txdrugs.html

"Some patients who take cyclosporin for a long time develop a condition called gum hypertrophy. This is an excessive growth of the gums, which can be unsightly. It is less likely to develop if patients practise good dental hygiene, including regular flossing between the teeth."

From: http://cpmcnet.columbia.edu/dept/cs/pat/kidneypancreastx/life.html#dental

"It is extremely important that you practice good oral hygiene after your transplant. Brush your teeth once or twice a day. You should floss your teeth after transplant, but flossing can irritate your gums and cause bleeding, so be gentle."

[Sluff]

"Some patients taking cyclosporine develop swelling of the gums. Brushing and flossing regularly may help to prevent this."

"Some patients who take cyclosporin for a long time develop a condition called gum hypertrophy. This is an excessive growth of the gums, which can be unsightly. It is less likely to develop if patients practise good dental hygiene, including regular flossing between the teeth."

I have this and it is from the cyclosporine.

[livecam]

There are different takes on flossing.  I'm fortunate to have had the same neph from dialysis day 1 to 5 years post transplant.  On every followup visit he would ask if I was flossing.  I don't do it on a regular basis so I bought an electric toothbrush instead.  He's happy with that and no longer asks.  I've heard all the stuff about swollen gum and mouth sores etc. after transplant.  None of that has ever happened with me.  My dental health was good before and it is good now, no problems.