It is absolutely critical to take antibiotics before any dental work. Most dentists are cognizant of the fact that the patients having knee artificial joints need antibiotics. Most dentists prescribe 2 grams of amoxicillin before any dental procedure. Antibiotic prophylaxis before dental procedure has to be followed for the rest of the patient’s life after any artificial hip or knee replacement surgery.
Some surgeons advise use of antibiotics only for two years after surgery and I am strongly against use only for two years. I have seen infections occur several years after hip replacement surgery if dental prophylaxes are not followed. Alternative antibiotics can be chosen by the dentists if the patient is allergic to amoxicillin.