THE ROLE OF ANTIBIOTICS IN PREVENTING POSTOPERATIVE INFECTIONS IN ORAL IMPLANTOLOGY

Ioan Sarbu, Caterina Nela Dumitru, Cristina Stanescu, Mariana Lupoae

DOI : 10.62610/RJOR.2025.2.17.85

Abstract

The use of antibiotics in oral implantology remains a subject of clinical relevance and scientific debate. While dental implants demonstrate high long-term success rates, postoperative infections, though relatively rare, can compromise osseointegration and lead to implant failure. Antibiotic prophylaxis is commonly employed to minimize these risks, especially in complex surgeries or patients with systemic risk factors. However, recent evidence challenges the routine administration of antibiotics in all cases, highlighting minimal benefits in healthy individuals undergoing standard implant placement. Moreover, widespread and often unjustified antibiotic use contributes to the global rise in antimicrobial resistance and exposes patients to potential adverse effects. This review explores the rationale, types, and timing of antibiotic use in implantology, examining current guidelines and the strength of available evidence. It also addresses alternative strategies for infection prevention, including strict surgical asepsis, antiseptic rinses, local antimicrobial agents, and the role of patient education. The review concludes by emphasizing the need for a risk-based, evidence-driven approach to antibiotic prescribing, integrating both clinical judgment and public health responsibility. Personalized protocols and continuous updates of clinical guidelines are essential to ensure safe, effective, and responsible use of antibiotics in modern dental implantology.