Antibiotics may be over-used for dental conditions in EDs

Little is known about the prescribing of antibiotics dental conditions amongst people presenting to the emergency departments. In a recently published study where data collection took place over a period spanning 2011 to 2015, there were an estimated 2.2 million ED visits per year for dental-related conditions in the USA, (1.6% of all visits). Some form of antibiotic, most commonly a narrow-spectrum penicillin agent or otherwise clindamycin was prescribed in 65% (95% CI 61% to 68%) of ED visits with any dental diagnosis. The authors found that the antibiotics were frequently prescribed in situations where recommended treatments for these conditions are usually dental procedures rather than antimicrobial therapy. The researchers conclude that “the common use of antibiotics for dental conditions in the ED may indicate the need for greater access to both preventive and urgent care from dentists and other related specialists as well as the need for clearer clinical guidance and provider education related to oral infections.