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Antibiotic Stewardship for Patients

Antibiotic ProphylaxisAntibiotics for the Treatment of Dental Infections | Adverse Events

 

In an effort to address rising antibiotic resistance and untoward effects, guidelines for the use of antibiotics in medicine and dentistry are evolving. Some infections that were previously routinely managed with antibiotics (e.g., sinusitis, otitis media, bronchitis) are now carefully evaluated to determine the need for antibiotics. When antibiotics are prescribed, it is important to use the most narrow-spectrum agent, limiting the exposure, with short-course regimens and/or early discontinuation. Collectively, these evolving practices are referred to as “antibiotic stewardship”. The healthcare community continues to struggle with patient expectations of antibiotic use and therefore it is imperative that patients be involved in evidence-informed decision-making by improving their knowledge of the benefits and risks of antibiotic use.


Antibiotic Prophylaxis

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How Are Antibiotics Used for Before, During or After Dental Treatment?

Best Practice: Short Course, Early Discontinuation

Best Practice: Safe Disposal of Unused Antibiotics

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Adverse Events

Antibiotic (Penicillin) Allergies

Clostridium difficile (C. diff) 

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Click on the boxes below to view resources for prescribers, the dental team, and policymakers. 

Antibiotic Stewardship for Prescribers    Antibiotic Stewardship for the Dental Team    Antibiotic Stewardship for Policymakers 

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