Antibiotic Stewardship
Inside Dentistry provides the latest in endodontics, implantology, periodontics, and more, with in-depth articles, expert videos, and top industry insights.
February 1, 2021
Volume 17, Issue 2, February 2021
Page(s): p. 2
In the past, dentists routinely prescribed antibiotics to prevent any chance of infection and ensure patients' comfort; however, now that we better understand their inherent potential for harm, guidelines for prescribing have moved from a "just in case" approach to "only when absolutely necessary." This month's cover story examines the risks associated with the administration of antibiotics and discusses the current guidelines for their use in various clinical situations.
Regarding infections of endodontic origin, I will prescribe antibiotics after delivering definitive treatment, but not in the absence of serious symptoms, such as fever and significant swelling. Alternatively, if one of my patients has undergone joint replacement and may be at elevated risk for developing infection from a dental procedure, I communicate with his or her orthopedist. Whatever the individual need, I believe that this decision-and the prescribing-are in the wheelhouse of the treating physician. Given our increased awareness of the dangers, it's more important than ever for dentists to follow current prescribing guidelines and join the healthcare community at large in its effort to improve patient safety and combat resistance globally.
I've been attending midwinter dental meetings and trade shows for the past 34 years. With COVID-19 limiting our potential for in-person education this year, Inside Dentistry can help fill the void. On p. 40, we've aggregated descriptions and links to 10 of our most popular CE courses, and even more great courses are available at id.cdeworld.com.
Robert C. Margeas, DDS
Editor-in-Chief, Inside Dentistry
Private Practice, Des Moines, Iowa
Adjunct Professor
Department of Operative Dentistry
University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
rmargeas_eic@aegiscomm.com
