ANTIBIOTIC PRESCRIOING IN ENDODONTICS :A KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE SURVEY

Abstract

1. Abstract 1.1 Purposes The primary aim of this study is to assess the knowledge and attitudes of post-graduate dental students at the College of Medicine and Dentistry (CoMD) on antibiotic prescribing practices in endodontics. This is achieved through identifying gaps in knowledge, adherence to guidelines, and factors influencing prescribing behaviors.

1.2 Method An observational descriptive survey employing both quantitative and qualitative approaches was conducted. A non-probability convenience sampling method was used to select participants. A structured questionnaire was designed, validated, and disseminated online to collect information on demographics, antibiotic prescribing preferences, adherence to guidelines, and decision-making processes.

1.3 Results In a group of 31 respondents, the study found varying levels of compliance regarding antibiotic prescriptions for different endodontic conditions and procedures. It showed high compliance scores (100%) for prescribing antibiotics in acute apical abscesses with systemic involvement and spread to fascial spaces. However, lower compliance was observed for acute apical abscess with localized swelling (31.4%) and acute apical periodontitis (40.0%). Regarding antibiotic regimens, Amoxicillin was correctly chosen by 82.9% of respondents for non-allergic patients, while Metronidazole was appropriately identified by 74.3% for penicillin-allergic patients. The study revealed knowledge gaps in antibiotic duration and timing; only 25.7% correctly identified when to stop antibiotics after initiating root canal treatment for dentoalveolar abscess with signs of systemic spread of infection. Finally, individual capability scores showed no statistically significant differences based on education level, postgraduate course type, or years of practice, although trends suggested higher scores with increased practice experience.

1.4 Conclusions The study indicates that there are need for regular antibiotic stewardship training to be incorporated into dental curricula to enhance prescribing practices. Subsequent research ought to include regional studies, longitudinal studies, qualitative interviews, interdisciplinary cooperation, and innovative decision-support tools.