Knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding antibiotic prescribing by dentists: a qualitative study in Chile

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the greatest threats to public health. As dentists play a major role in the prescription of antibiotics, the aim of this study was to study knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding antibiotic prescribing in dentistry.

We conducted a qualitative study on dentists in Chile, using the focus-group (FG) method. To form the groups, the inclusion criteria required participants: (i) to be graduates in dentistry; and (ii) be practising as dentists or dental surgeons at the date of study. Transcriptions of the FG sessions were analysed using the thematic analysis technique.

Six FG with 27 participants were developed. The factors and attitudes identified in antibiotic prescribing were cultural and social context; need of patient expectations; external responsibility; patient pressure; and healthcare burden. Dentists considered the control of medicines and education of the population to be essential. Additionally, the participants stressed the importance of knowledge about antibiotic use.

This study identified key factors such as the culture of trivialisation of antibiotic use and the need to prevent the sale of antibiotics in non-healthcare markets. In addition, there is a need for strategies targeted at modifying the knowledge, attitudes and practices.