This national survey examined factors influencing dentists’ prudent antibiotic prescribing, barriers to implementing evidence-based guidelines in dental practice, and solutions to promote prudent prescribing. A validated online survey assessed dentists across five domains: participant characteristics, antibiotic prescribing practices, knowledge of antimicrobial resistance, barriers and solutions for prudent antibiotic use, and knowledge and adherence to evidence-based guidelines. A total of 811 dentists completed the survey (55.2% female). Antibiotic prescribing was mainly influenced by patients’ clinical signs and symptoms (79.0%), immune status (73.0%), and medical/dental history (66.0%). Key contributors to antimicrobial resistance were frequent antibiotic prescribing (97.1%), patient self-medication with leftover antibiotics (95.1%), and use of broad-spectrum agents when narrower options were available (90.3%). Only 25% of participants were familiar with evidence-based guidelines. Regression analysis showed region and professional experience as significantly associated with compliance with prophylactic/therapeutic antibiotic prescribing to protect patients (OR = 1.7–1.5; p < 0.025). Awareness of the evidence-based guidelines, working ≤ 30 h/week, and receiving prescription feedback were significantly associated with compliance with therapeutic antibiotic prescribing to protect society (OR = 1.8–1.5; p < 0.030). Information technology support was perceived as a useful aid for prescribing. Antibiotics are still prescribed for inappropriate indications. Continued efforts are needed to raise awareness and strengthen antibiotic stewardship in daily practice.
Carvalho et al. (Wed,) studied this question.