Antibiotic use in dental practice: A review

Abstract

Antibiotics are used in the management of many dental infections since decades. Antibioticsare requisite drugs for the management of oral and maxillofacial infections. They are used for the treatment of odontogenic infections, non-odontogenic infections and as prophylaxis against local infections spreading to surrounding tissues and organs. It has been estimated that 10% of all antibiotics prescriptions are linked to dental infections, the combination Amoxicillin-clavulanate is the most preferred antibiotic amongst dentists. The concurrent prescription of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can slightly alter the bioavailability of antibiotics. Over the years various new concepts are been devised in the antibiotic usage, but there is a universal abuse of antibiotics in both medical and dental field. The ultimate indication for the use of antibiotics is bounded and distinct. Pregnancy, kidney failure and liver failure are certain situations which demands special attention on the part of the professionals while indicating antibiotics.