A new investigation by the University of Minnesota’s Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP NEWS) found that dentists continue to prescribe antibiotics at surprisingly high rates, despite years of warnings about unnecessary use and potential patient harm. According to data analyzed by CIDRAP NEWS, U.S. dentists wrote more than 27 million antibiotic prescriptions in 2025, a 6% increase from 2020. (CIDRAP NEWS)
Particular concern surrounds clindamycin, an antibiotic associated with a higher risk of Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infections, which can cause severe illness and even death. Although clindamycin prescribing has declined in recent years, it remains the second most commonly prescribed dental antibiotic, with more than 2.3 million prescriptions written in 2025. Experts interviewed by CIDRAP NEWS say safer alternatives are often available and that many patients receive antibiotics unnecessarily. (CIDRAP NEWS)
Research cited in the investigation suggests that up to 80% of preventive dental antibiotic prescriptions may be inconsistent with current clinical guidelines. Experts point to outdated prescribing habits, lack of awareness of newer recommendations, and limited participation in antibiotic stewardship education as key factors contributing to continued overuse. (CIDRAP NEWS)
The CIDRAP NEWS series highlights growing calls for stronger antibiotic stewardship in dentistry, including additional continuing education and greater adherence to evidence-based guidelines. Health experts warn that unnecessary antibiotic use increases the risk of adverse drug reactions, C. diff infections, and antimicrobial resistance, a global public health threat that reduces the effectiveness of life-saving medications. (CIDRAP NEWS)
Read the full article: https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/antimicrobial-stewardship/dentists-still-write-millions-prescriptions-year-antibiotic-life
