Antibiotic Resistance – A Concern for Dentists?

Abstract

Background: Antibiotic overuse and misuse among dentists was found to be substantial. Exploration of scientific literature revealed very limited studies in India assessing the antibiotic prescription pattern among dentists. Objective: The present survey was carried to assess the antibiotic prescription pattern, awareness on antibiotic resistance and measures taken to combat antibiotic resistance among dentists at Dhule city of Maharashtra. Materials and methods: A self-designed questionnaire was prepared in English to collect the demographic data and information regarding the prescription pattern of antibiotics among dentists at Dhule. The questionnaire was pre-tested for feasibility and reliability. Crohn Bach's alpha value for reliability was found to be 0.6. Questionnaire was distributed in person to all the dentists. Response rate was 100%. Statistical analysis: chi-square test Results: Majority of dentists were found to prescribe antibiotics for managing oral diseases except for orthodontic treatment. When comparisons were made between BDS and MDS graduates, majority of the questions were found to be not significant except for periodontal pockets (p=0.02), tooth fracture (p=0.03), dental caries with pulpitis (p<0.001), dental caries with apical periodontitis (p<0.001) and periapical abscess (p=0.02) Conclusions: Dental diseases are predominantly because of local factors; Antibiotics should be used only as adjuncts even when there is a real need; never the first line of treatment modality. Public needs to be educated at mass level against self-medication with antibiotics, which will help us in curbing antibiotic resistance to a greater extent.