Abstract:

The extensive use of antibiotics and the development of antibiotic-resistant microbial strains represent a global concern, therefore during endodontic treatment these drugs should be considered mainly for patients with systemic diseases or with a localized congenital or acquired altered immunity. The prescription of antibiotics for endodontic infections is frequently empirical, which led to the increasing use of drugs with a broad spectrum, even in cases without such indications. The aim of our paper is to conduct a review on the current literature regarding the indications and use of antibiotics, in order to deliver proper recommendations for their prescription in patients under endodontic therapy. The conclusions show that amoxicillin is recommended alone or together with clavulanic acid, due to better absorption and lower risk of side effects, even though Penicillin V potassium, possibly combined with metronidazole is still effective in the majority of cases.

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