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A Protocol to Characterize the Morphological Changes of Clostridium difficile in Response to Antibiotic Treatment
Published on: May 25, 2017
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Dentists, antibiotics and Clostridium difficile-associated disease
N Beacher1, M P Sweeney1, J Bagg1
1University of Glasgow Dental School, School of Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary &Life Sciences, 378, Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow, G2 3JZ.
British Dental Journal
|September 26, 2015
Summary
Dentists often misuse antimicrobial drugs, increasing risks like Clostridium difficile-associated disease (CDAD). Reducing inappropriate antibiotic prescribing and improving infection control are crucial for patient safety and preserving antibiotic effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Oral medicine
- Infectious diseases
- Public health
Background:
- Antimicrobial drug prescribing is prevalent in dental primary care.
- Evidence suggests significant inappropriate use and misuse of antibiotics in dentistry.
- Healthcare professionals, including dentists, often lack awareness of Clostridium difficile-associated disease (CDAD).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the prevalence and characteristics of CDAD in the context of dental prescribing.
- To summarize current understanding of community-acquired CDAD.
- To highlight the importance of infection control and judicious antibiotic use in dentistry.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of antimicrobial prescribing in dentistry.
- Analysis of current clinical guidance on antibiotic use.
- Summary of contemporary knowledge regarding CDAD.
Main Results:
- Many dental antibiotic prescriptions are not aligned with current clinical guidelines.
- Considerable misuse of antimicrobial drugs occurs in dental practice.
- CDAD is a significant risk associated with antibiotic administration, often underestimated by dental professionals.
Conclusions:
- Reducing inappropriate antibiotic prescribing in dentistry is essential.
- Strict adherence to infection control protocols is vital.
- These measures are critical to mitigate CDAD risks, prevent antimicrobial resistance, and preserve antibiotic efficacy.
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