SHEFFIELD, UK: Infective endocarditis (IE) is a potentially life-threatening heart infection that is caused by dental bacteria in around a third of cases. A recent review led by researchers from the University of Sheffield confirmed that dental patients at high risk of IE should be given antibiotics before undergoing invasive dental treatment. As antibiotic prophylaxis is currently not recommended in the UK—in contrast to other countries around the world—the researchers are urging UK healthcare authorities to update the guidelines.