Bacterial endocarditis is a disease of the heart valves or the inner lining of the heart.
Bacteria can attach onto these structures and begin to grow. This condition can usually be prevented by taking antibiotic medicine before an operation or other medical or dental procedure. Always talk to your doctor before your child has surgery or goes to the dentist to check if your child will need antibiotics. The most common reason your child will need antibiotics is for a dental procedure. Your child should receive antibiotics before dental procedures when bleeding is expected.