Implementing the use of antibiotics by general dentists, pediatric dentists, and pediatrician in treatment of the odontogenic infections in children: a questionnaire based study

Abstract Aim To examine the antibiotic prescribing practices of general dentists, pediatric dentist, and pediatricians in the management of odontogenic infections in children. Materials and Methods An electronic version of questionnaire for cross-sectional survey was designed. Five clinical case scenarios on antibiotic prescription were included in the survey, which was sent out as a self-completed questionnaire. A total of 30 doctors were included which consisted of general dentists ( n = 10), pediatric dentists ( n = 10), and pediatricians ( n = 10). A link was generated and e-mail was sent to these health professionals. Over the duration of a month and a half, the investigation was carried out. Data was computed and was analyzed using SPSS version. Results The sample included 30 medical professionals. Majority of respondents (70%) choose antibiotics prescription for all five clinical scenarios. The adherence to professional guidelines was implemented in 11, 26, and 32% of the three in-office case, respectively. However, adherence declined to 15 and 17% for the two after-hours case scenarios. Postgraduate trained dentists and pediatricians were more likely to follow the guidelines. There was no statistically significant difference among general dentists. Conclusion Adherence to professional guidelines for prescribing antibiotics for odontogenic infections in children was extremely low among health care professionals.