Prophylactic Use of Antibiotics in Dentistry – a Review

* Reader, Department of Oral and Maxilofacial Surgery, Harsaran Das Dental College, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India ** Senior Lecturer, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, Harsaran Das Dental College, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India *** Reader, Department of Orthodontics, Krishna Dental College, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India ________________________________________________________________________ ABSTRACT Antibiotics are commonly used in dental practice. They are used for both prophylactic and therapeutic treatment. The use of antibiotics in dental practice is characterized by empirical prescription based on clinical and bacteriological epidemiological factors, with the use of broad spectrum antibiotics. Antibiotics are indicated in odontogenic infections, non-odontogenic infections, as prophylaxis against focal infection, and as prophylaxis against local infection and spread to neighboring tissues and organs. Special precaution should be taken when prescribing antibiotic treatment. The present study review prophylactic use of antibiotic in dental practice, and contributes elements to favor the rational use of such medicines.