Pattern of Antibiotic Prescription among Dentists in Iran.

INTRODUCTION

This study examines the antibiotic prescription in dentists participated in 9(th) Congress of Iranian Association of Endodontists in Esfahan/2006.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A questionnaire for this cross sectional study was designed for evaluating the patterns of antibiotic prescription. It included some demographic information, clinical signs, and conditions in need for antibiotic and prophylactic prescription and their choices. Data was analyzed using Pearson's Chi-square test.

RESULTS

High percentage of responders prescribe antibiotic for fever (78.2%) and diffuse swelling (85.1%). However, some situations such as acute pulpitis, chronic periapical lesions and marginal gingivitis were irrationally prescribed.

CONCLUSION

This study showed a fairly good pattern of antibiotic prescription but it was far from ideal.