Prescription of antibiotics in bone augmentation with dental implant

Abstract

The prescription of antibiotics in bone augmentation procedures with dental implants is an essential strategy for preventing postoperative infections, which can undermine the success of the surgery and implant integration. Dental implants are a widely used solution for replacing missing teeth, but in cases where there is insufficient bone volume or density, bone augmentation techniques such as bone grafting, sinus lifts, and guided bone regeneration are often required [1]. These procedures, due to their invasive nature and the introduction of biomaterials into the body, increase the risk of infection, which can compromise healing and lead to implant failure [2]. To minimize the risk of infection, both prophylactic (pre-operative) and therapeutic (post-operative) antibiotics are commonly prescribed. Prophylactic antibiotics are typically administered shortly before surgery to reduce the bacterial load in the surgical area, while post-operative antibiotics help prevent infections during the healing phase [3]. The use of antibiotics in this context is particularly critical in high-risk patients, such as those who are immunecompromised or suffer from systemic conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular disease [4]. However, the use of antibiotics must be balanced carefully to avoid overuse and the development of antibiotic resistance, a growing concern in clinical settings [5]. Antibiotic stewardship strategies, which emphasize appropriate dosing, duration, and selection of antibiotics, are important to ensure the efficacy of treatment and patient safety [6]. Since bone augmentation is a common procedure in dentoalveolar surgery, the use of antibiotics for this reason in otherwise healthy patients may make a big difference in the total amount of antibiotics used in general dentistry. Therefore, any effort to limit wasteful consumption is of the utmost importance. This is because the development of antibiotic resistance is considered the greatest threat to current health care [7]. This paper aims to explore the rationale behind antibiotic use in bone augmentation with dental implants, reviewing current practices and considerations for individual patients. This is considered the first clinical study performed in Nineveh Province, Iraq.