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Antimicrobials
* Broad spectrum antibiotics are used when the infectious agent is unknown.
Narrow spectrum antibiotics are prescribed when the micro-organisms have been identified from
tissue samples.
** Many bacteria produce an enzyme which destroys beta lactam antibiotics. In addition to this,
MRSA (methicilin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) produces an inactivating protein which
confers resistance to most other antibiotics.
Indications for the use of
antibacterials
(together with appropriate surgical drainage or
other measures)
– Cervical fascial space infections;
– Osteomyelitis and osteoradionecrosis;
– Odontogenic infections in ill, toxic or
susceptible patients (e.g.
immunocompromised);
– Acute ulcerative gingivitis;
– Some instances of:
• pericoronitis;
• dental abscess;
• dry socket;
Prophylactic use of
Antibacterials
– infective endocarditis ;
– in cerebrospinal rhinorrhoea;
– in compound facial or skull fractures;
– in major oral and maxillofacial surgery
(e.g. osteotomies or tumour resection);
– In surgery in immunocompromised or
debilitated patients, or following
radiotherapy to the jaws.
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