Unnecessary Antibiotic Prescribing in Dental Practices and Associated Adverse Effects

AbstractPurpose of the ReviewDentists prescribe 10% of outpatient antibiotics in the USA; we discuss recent data evaluating antibiotic use in dentistry and opportunities for improvement.Recent FindingsWe review the indications for antibiotics in dentistry, recent data highlighting frequent unnecessary use of antibiotic prophylaxis prior to dental procedures, adverse effects associated with antibiotic use in dentistry, and examples of successful stewardship interventions in the dental setting.SummaryAntimicrobial stewardship in dentistry is nascent and current data suggest antibiotic use can be significantly improved in this setting which may lead to improved patient outcomes and decreased risk of adverse drug effects.
Source: Current Infectious Disease Reports - Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research