The use of systemic antibiotics in dental practice

Clinical dental practice is immersed in the primary treatment and corrective management of infectious bacterial diseases of the oral and peri-oral region. Systemic antibiotics play a key role in achieving either therapeutic and/or prophylactic treatment goals. There are a number of theoretical considerations associated with the use of systemic antibiotics in dental practice. These are related to the principles of infection management, microbiology and host response, and the pharmacology of the particular agent. In the clinical setting, these principles are modulated by a number of factors. These factors need to be understood to ensure appropriate prescribing of antibiotics. Minimizing the occurrence of antibiotic misuse and abuse has global implications for the containment of resistant bacterial strains. This paper discusses some of the current understanding of prescribing practices by dentists. Also presented is an outline of the factors that may be considered in the use of antibiotics.