A retrospective analysis of antimicrobial prescriptions in dentistry: Understanding the patterns

The widespread use of antibiotics, particularly amoxicillin and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, has improved the management of bacterial infections. However, their inappropriate use contributes to antimicrobial resistance, a major public health concern. Dentists account for approximately 10% of antibiotic prescriptions worldwide, often based on empirical decisions. This study aimed to analyse antibiotic prescribing patterns and assess adherence to clinical guidelines in a University Dental Clinic.

A retrospective observational study was conducted using clinical records from patients treated between January 2021 and December 2025. Data included sociodemographic variables, prescription characteristics, and guideline-based appropriateness. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 31.0, with significance set at p<0.05.

A total of 1770 patient records were included, of which 14.1% involved a prescription. Amoxicillin-clavulanic acid was the most frequently prescribed antibiotic (55.0%). Only 20.1% of prescriptions were appropriate, while 36.9% were inappropriate and 43.0% could not be assessed because of incomplete documentation. Antibiotic prescribing was significantly associated with dental service (p<0.001).

Antibiotic prescribing practices showed substantial deviations from guideline recommendations, particularly due to frequent broad-spectrum antibiotic use and incomplete clinical documentation. These findings underscore the need to strengthen antimicrobial stewardship and improve record quality in dental settings.