New Study Shows Dentists Prescribe within Guidelines, Still Room for Improvement

New Study Shows Dentists Prescribe within Guidelines, Still Room for Improvement

Dentists prescribed 24.5 million antibiotic prescriptions in 2013, which equates to 10% of all antibiotic prescriptions in the outpatient setting.

A recent CDC study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) revealed information about antibiotic prescribing among general dentists in the U.S.  The study found that although dentists usually prescribe within recommended guidelines, they sometimes prescribe antibiotics not indicated for dental conditions, such as fluoroquinolones and others used to treat urinary tract infections.

Optimal antibiotic prescribing by all healthcare providers, including dentists, is critical to combat antibiotic resistant infections and save lives.

Check out today’s Safe Healthcare Blog to read about Dr. Fluent’s tips for supporting responsible antibiotic prescribing practices in dentistry.

Learn more about improving antibiotic prescribing.