Antimicrobials: their use and misuse in pediatric dental practices

Abstract

Antibiotics are medications that fight against bacterial infections and are often prescribed by dentists in dentalpractice, during dental treatment as well as for prevention of infection. Since most dental and periodontal diseases are best managed by operative intervention and oral hygiene measures, the indications for the use of systemic antibiotics in dentistry are limited. The injudicious use of antibiotics and lack of awareness among practitioners are one of the key contributors to the emergence of antibiotic -resistant bacterial strains. It is therefore mandatory that antibiotics are prescribed only when they are likely to clinicily benefitthe pediatric patient. Pediatric dentists can make a difference by the sensible use of antimicrobials by prescribing the correct drug, at the standard dosage and appropriate route only when systemic spread of infection is evident.