.webp&w=384&q=75){kind=logo}
Loading, please wait...
Loading, please wait...
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a significant challenge to global public health. Therefore, dental antibiotic stewardship has become a priority for healthcare systems worldwide. A recent cross-sectional survey in Trinidad and Tobago examined the prescribing habits of registered dentists. This study used the REDCap platform to collect demographic and clinical practice data. Consequently, the findings provide essential insights into how dental professionals manage infections and the factors influencing their drug choices. Interestingly, the study highlights a pressing need for targeted interventions to curb the emergence of resistant bacterial strains.
The trends observed in international surveys align closely with research conducted within India. Currently, Indian dental practitioners contribute nearly 10% of the nation's total antibiotic prescriptions. However, the lack of dental-specific national guidelines often leads to inappropriate use for non-clinical reasons. For instance, dentists may prescribe medication due to patient expectations or time constraints rather than strict clinical necessity. Specifically, conditions like localized toothaches often require surgical intervention rather than systemic drugs. Therefore, implementing dental antibiotic stewardship programs is vital to ensure that prescriptions remain a secondary measure to clinical procedures.
Structured stewardship programs should focus on educating both practitioners and patients. Specifically, the mantra of "procedures, not prescriptions" can significantly reduce unnecessary drug usage. Furthermore, integrating antimicrobial stewardship into the undergraduate dental curriculum is essential for long-term change. This approach will help bridge the existing knowledge-practice gap among new professionals. In addition, providing chairside guides and patient information sheets can assist dentists in making evidence-based decisions. Ultimately, rational prescribing protects patient safety, reduces adverse effects, and preserves the efficacy of life-saving medications.
It is essential because inappropriate prescribing in dental practice contributes significantly to global antimicrobial resistance. Stewardship ensures that antibiotics are used only when necessary, preserving their effectiveness for severe infections.
Dentists should generally avoid antibiotics for localized conditions like pulpitis or simple toothaches. These conditions are typically best managed through operative interventions, such as tooth extraction or root canal treatment, rather than systemic medication.
Key barriers include the absence of national dental-specific prescribing guidelines, patient pressure for "quick fixes," and limited content on stewardship within the standard dental curriculum.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.
References
1. Kalemeera F et al. Antibiotic Prescribing in Dental Practice: A Cross-sectional Survey in Trinidad and Tobago. Int Dent J. 2026 May 20. doi: undefined. PMID: 42160809.
2. Bhuvaraghan A et al. Dental stewardship implementation and antimicrobial resistance awareness in India: prescribing patterns, knowledge gaps, and barriers–systematic review with narrative synthesis. University of Hertfordshire Research Profiles. 2024.
3. Bhuvaraghan A et al. Dental antibiotic policies, stewardship, and implementation in India: A policy document analysis. JAC-Antimicrob Resist. 2024;6(3):dlae091.
Read summarized clinical updates, watch expert medical content, and earn CME certifications right from your smartphone.
Open your smartphone camera to scan and install.
A cross-sectional survey highlights the urgent need for dental antibiotic stewardship to combat antimicrobial resistance and optimize prescribing habits....
2 months ago
Andhra Pradesh reported 10 new Covid-19 cases, taking the state tally to 49 while deaths remain at four. With 24 patients hospitalized and 16 under home isolation, the Health Department has intensified monitoring. Medical professionals should review regional distribution, diagnostic protocols, and management plans.
Today
An 11-year Swedish registry study of 618 uterine sarcoma patients found that minimally invasive surgery yielded survival comparable to open surgery in early stages. However, adjuvant chemotherapy conferred no survival benefit in localized or advanced disease, highlighting stage and histology as key outcomes.
3 days back
A cross-sectional study evaluates post-intensive care syndrome in cardiac patients 2-4 weeks post-ICU discharge, highlighting cognitive, psychological, and functional impairments and the need for structured multidisciplinary rehabilitation.
3 days back
Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction failure lacks uniform definition. A narrative review proposes an integrative framework incorporating objective and subjective instability, persistent pain, restricted motion, graft rupture, and secondary meniscal injury to standardize clinical reporting.
3 days back
With World Obesity Atlas data warning that over 41 million Indian children are overweight or obese, ICMR and NIN have unveiled a 10-point policy roadmap. The initiative calls for mandatory front-of-pack labeling, HFSS taxes, strict marketing bans, and healthier school environments to curb non-communicable diseases.
Today
