Antibiotic Use in Pediatric Dentistry

Antibiotic use in the dental field, especially in pediatric dentistry, should be carefully considered, taking into account resistance and side effects. This review aims to provide a general overview of antibiotic use and dosage in pediatric dentistry. Indications for antibiotic prescription include symptoms of systemic infection such as fever (≥ 38°C), lymphadenitis (cervical lymph node swelling and tenderness), facial swelling (especially spreading around the eyes), cellulitis, soft tissue infections (risk of deep infection and sepsis), severe localized infection or high risk of infection after invasive dental procedures such as acute pulpitis, severe periapical abscess spreading to soft tissues, persistent or worsening infection despite drainage, and prophylactic antibiotic use in immunocompromised patients. Antibiotic use for simple dental caries, no signs of infection after root canal treatment, prophylactic use after simple tooth extraction, and viral infections is unnecessary. The first-choice antibiotic in dentistry is amoxicillin; its dosage should be adjusted according to the infection symptoms and body weight in children. Furthermore, amoxicillin-clavulanate, clindamycin, metronidazole and azithromycin can be prescribed depending on the type of infection and the patient’s allergies. Excessive and inappropriate antibiotic use can contribute to antibiotic resistance. Pediatric dentists should receive continuous education and stay updated on periodic revisions to antibiotic use and dosage guidelines.