Infective Endocarditis and Oral Infections: Prevention and Therapeutic Approaches

Infective endocarditis is a severe condition, associated with high mortality, and oral infections are a major source of pathogenic bacteremia. Studies have shown that oral microorganisms, particularly Streptococcus viridans and Staphylococcus aureus, can enter the systemic circulation through gingival lesions or following invasive dental procedures, colonizing the affected heart valves. The prevention of infectious endocarditis involves maintaining rigorous oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and rational administration of antibiotic prophylaxis according to international guidelines. Treatment of infective endocarditis requires long-term antibiotic therapy, and in severe cases, surgery becomes necessary to replace the infected valve. Interdisciplinary collaboration between dentists, cardiologists, and infectious disease specialists is essential for the early identification and management of at-risk patients. Prospects include the use of advanced technologies for early diagnosis, the development of antimicrobial valve biomaterials, and the potential deployment of vaccines against oral pathogens involved in the pathogenesis of infective endocarditis. Through an effective preventive approach and personalized treatments, the incidence and complications of this condition can be significantly reduced.