The COVID-19 pandemic in Michigan has limited patient access to routine oral health care. This has forced many patients to use antibiotics rather than definitive care for infectious dental problems. Most patients who present to Emergency Departments/Urgent Care are prescribed antibiotics and analgesics and directed to seek treatment with a dentist. Unfortunately, even before COVID, many patients often did not follow thru with care once symptoms resolved.
The Problem of Antibiotic Resistance
Currently there is a world-wide problem with antibiotic resistance and health care providers are being encouraged to reassess their use of antibiotics. Over the years, use of antibiotics without an evidence base has contributed to antibiotic resistance in populations.
The cover story of the November 2019 Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) addressed this issue and is required reading for responsible dentists. “Evidence-based clinical practice guideline on antibiotic use for the urgent management of pulpal- and periapical-related dental pain and intraoral swelling” by Lockhart et al provides necessary guidance for dentists.
Read more: https://www.grandrapidsoralsurgery.com/blog/responsible-antibiotic-prescribing/
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