Antibiotic Prophylaxis Practices Amongst Dental Practitioners In The UK

Objectives: This study aimed to determine: the knowledge and application of current expert recommendations on antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent infective endocarditis in at risk patients; the most common sources of information on this topic amongst dentists in the UK. Methods: Postal questionnaire survey.The questionnaire was designed in 3 sections: Part A demographic data, Part B antimicrobial prophylaxis prescribing habits for adults treated under local analgesia, Part C sources of information about recommended schedules and changes in dentists' prophylaxis regimens. Results: Responses were received from 468 dentists (62% response rate). 98% of dentists organized the prophylaxis themselves. Over 80% of dentists would refer patients to his/her GP or cardiologist for further advice about prophylaxis if they were unsure of the indications. 84% of respondents closely follow UK recommendations for antibiotic prophylaxis. A significant proportion of practitioners prescribed the correct antibiotic for patients non allergic and allergic to penicillin. Although dentists were familiar with the dental procedures that could place their patients at risk and over 80% prescribed prophylaxis for patients with Prosthetic Heart Valves and Previous Bacterial Endocarditis, they also considered antibiotic prophylaxis for patients with the medical history not known to be at risk from dental procedures. About 60% of dentist mentioned Medical/Dental journal as the last sources that they heard about this topic. Furthermore, 80% would like to attend further courses about this topic. Conclusion: Generally, the level of prophylaxis knowledge had improved compared with previous reports. However, there was a tendency toward over-prescription. This could contribute to the problem of antimicrobial resistance. Educational initiatives for implementation of updated recommendations by dental practitioners might reverse this trend.