Advances in Research

Background: Inappropriate and excessive antibiotic use contributes to antibiotic resistance, and appropriate prescribing knowledge is important in dental practice. This study assessed knowledge of antibiotic use and attitudes towards antibiotic resistance among dental students and practitioners in Rajasthan.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among dental students and practitioners. Of 250 questionnaires distributed, 221 completed responses were received. The questionnaire collected sociodemographic information, commonly prescribed antibiotics, clinical conditions influencing antibiotic prescription, knowledge regarding antibiotics, and attitudes towards antibiotic resistance. Data were reviewed and expressed as percentages.

Results: Participants included 60.2% females and 39.8% males; 61.1% were aged 21–25 years. Amoxicillin and the combination of amoxicillin with clavulanic acid were each reported as the first-choice antibiotic for odontogenic infection by 42.1% of participants. Antibiotics would be prescribed by 74.7% for extraction of an impacted tooth and by 54.8% for pulpitis. Most participants (97.3%) reported taking a patient’s medical history before prescribing antibiotics. In addition, 94.1% agreed that infections caused by resistant bacteria are increasing in India, while 95% indicated that antibiotic prescribing should be based on pathogen culture. No statistically significant differences in knowledge or attitudes were observed among the groups.

Conclusion: Knowledge of antibiotic prescribing and resistance was suboptimal despite awareness of several resistance-related issues. Educational initiatives are warranted to reinforce appropriate antibiotic use and antimicrobial stewardship among dental students and practitioners.