Antibiotic Resistance in Dentistry: A Review

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Antibiotic overuse in dentistry significantly contributes to the global rise in antibiotic resistance.
• This resistance poses serious risks to both oral and overall patient health.
• Odontogenic infections necessitate antibiotics, but inappropriate prescribing is common.

Purpose of the Study:

• Review current antibiotic use in dental practices.
• Elucidate mechanisms of antibiotic resistance development.
• Identify contributing factors and propose mitigation strategies for antibiotic resistance.

Main Methods:

• This study is a narrative review of current antibiotic prescribing patterns in dentistry.
• It evaluates evidence on the unnecessary or inappropriate use of antibiotics.
• The review examines the effectiveness of conventional treatments against resistant oral pathogens.

Main Results:

• Key oral pathogens like *Streptococcus* spp., *Enterococcus faecalis*, and *Porphyromonas gingivalis* show increasing resistance.
• Contributing factors include poor guideline adherence, patient pressure, and lack of antibiotic stewardship awareness.
• Evidence-based prescribing, stewardship programs, and alternative therapies are vital.

Conclusions:

• Combating dental antibiotic resistance requires collaboration among clinicians, researchers, educators, and policymakers.
• Enhanced surveillance, stewardship policies, and innovative research are essential.
• The dental profession must commit to responsible prescribing for effective patient care.