Awareness of Knowledge About Antibiotics Prescription Among General Dentists in Kalaburagi Population

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Background: Antibiotic resistance is a growing global health threat, fueled by the misuse and overuse
of antibiotics. This has lead to reduced treatment effectiveness, prolonged illness, increased mortality,
and greater infectivity. In dentistry, infections of the dental pulp and periapical tissues are mainly
microbial in origin, but not all cases require antibiotic therapy. Inappropriate prescribing contributes to
resistance and raises healthcare costs, particularly due to the reliance on costly second-line antibiotics.
The WHO’s AWaRe (Access, Watch, Reserve) classification promotes rational antibiotic use and global
stewardship
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among general dentists to evaluate their antibiotic
prescribing patterns and awareness of the AWaRe classification. The structured questionnaire assessed
knowledge, attitudes, and clinical decision-making related to antibiotic use in dental practice.
Results and Conclusion: Findings revealed variability in antibiotic prescribing habits. While many
dentists followed appropriate indications, a significant proportion prescribed, antibiotics unnecessarily.
Awareness of the AWaRe classification was limited. These results highlight the need for increased
education and stricter adherence to evidence-based guidelines to improve antibiotic use in dental
practice.