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Infection Control · single question

For a patient with a recent MI, when can you safely perform ELECTIVE dental treatment?

  1. After 8 months
  2. After 3 months
  3. After 6 months from the MI (once the patient is medically stable)
  4. After 2 months
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Correct answer: C. After 6 months from the MI (once the patient is medically stable)

  • A. 8 months is a safe time (>6 months), but the MINIMUM safe threshold is 6 months, not 8.
  • B. 3 months is still within the high-risk window — 6 months is the standard threshold.
  • C. Correct. Elective dental treatment should be DEFERRED for at least 6 months following an MI. During this period, the myocardium is healing and the patient is at highest risk for re-infarction and arrhythmias. After 6 months, with medical clearance and stable cardiovascular status, elective dental treatment can be performed.
  • D. 2 months post-MI is still high risk — elective procedures should be deferred.

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