This case-based review covers the principles of modern antibiotic therapy in a clinical context. It examines evidence on topics such as the primacy of surgical intervention over antibiotic therapy, new guidelines for antibiotics in odontogenic infections, new bacterial identification methods, prophylactic antibiotics for third molar and implant surgeries, empiric antibiotic choices, strategies for penicillin allergy, osteomyelitis and newly available antibiotics. The session also discusses the clinically important pharmacology of selected antibiotics useful to OMSs.
Learning Objectives:
At the conclusion of this presentation, participants should be able to:
Choose an appropriate surgical intervention before choosing an appropriate antibiotic in the management of odontogenic infections.
Take a sample for aerobic and anaerobic culture and sensitivity testing in cases that may become complicated, in immunocompromised patients or where the microbial etiology may be unusual.
Use prophylactic antibiotics for mandibular third molar surgery when appropriate.
Stratify the risk of penicillin allergy in a given patient, referring patients for penicillin allergy testing when practical and feasible.
Select an empiric antibiotic in varying clinical situations depending on safety, cost and patient medical history.
