Looking After My Mouth & Gums After Rheumatic Fever

How can I look after my mouth and gums?

It is important to have regular check-ups with a dentist every 6 to 12 months.

You will need to tell any doctor, nurse or dentist that you have rheumatic fever or rheumatic heart disease. Before any treatment or operation, you may need antibiotic medicine to stop any germs in the mouth causing problems to your heart. This is known as antibiotic prophylaxis.

School dental clinics

If you are at primary or intermediate school, you will need to enrol with the school dental nurse. Please ask the school for more information.

If you are in high school or under 18, you can get free dental treatment at a community dental practice.

If you are over 18, you may be able to go to a hospital dental service for treatment (check with your specialist or nurse).

Other parts of the journey

My rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease journey introduction

Checklist - going home from hospital after my rheumatic fever

Taking care of my health after a diagnosis of rheumatic fever

What exactly is rheumatic fever?

My rheumatic fever or rheumatic heart disease journey in pictures

What exactly is rheumatic heart disease?

How will my rheumatic fever be managed?

What other ways can I look after my health after rheumatic fever?

When can I return to doing the things I enjoy after rheumatic fever?

Will I need regular medical check-ups after rheumatic fever?

Looking after my mouth and gums after rheumatic fever (You are here)

Wanting to plan to have a baby after rheumatic fever?