Current Issues and Perspectives in Antimicrobials use in Dental Practice

Area of Science:

• Oral Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Antimicrobial use in dentistry is complex, influenced by infection origin, patient comorbidities, and general health risks.
• Antibiotic abuse and misuse contribute to bacterial resistance, posing significant public health challenges.
• Risk-benefit assessment of antimicrobials is crucial, particularly for vulnerable populations like pregnant women.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the complexities of antimicrobial selection and management in dental practice.
• To highlight the importance of risk-benefit evaluation for oral infections.
• To focus on the application and implications of novel antibiotic classes in dentistry.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on antimicrobial use in dentistry.
• Analysis of risk factors associated with oral infections and systemic health.
• Evaluation of risk management strategies for antimicrobial therapy.

Main Results:

• Dental infections present multifaceted causality and comorbidity factors influencing antimicrobial choice.
• Patient's general health status and potential consequences in the neck region are critical considerations.
• Emerging antibiotic resistance necessitates updated therapeutic guidelines and careful prescribing.

Conclusions:

• Judicious antimicrobial use in dentistry requires a thorough risk-benefit analysis and strategic management.
• Special attention must be paid to patient-specific factors and the evolving landscape of antibiotic resistance.
• Further research into new antibiotic classes is essential for effective and safe dental practice.