Lowest Bacteraemia Risk Procedure — NDEB AFK MCQ
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Correct answer: E — Taking dental radiographs
Taking dental radiographs does not involve manipulation of gingival tissue, periapical regions, or perforation of oral mucosa, and therefore has virtually no risk of causing clinically significant bacteraemia. In contrast, tooth extraction (greatest bacteraemia), scaling and root planing, periodontal probing (transient low-level bacteraemia), and endodontic surgery all involve tissue manipulation that can introduce oral bacteria into the bloodstream. This is why radiography does NOT require IE prophylaxis.
Reference: AHA – Prevention of Infective Endocarditis Guidelines, 2021