Antibiotic Resistance: A Growing Concern in Dentistry
Antibiotics have long been one of our most trusted tools in dentistry, helping to manage infections and prevent complications after procedures. However, growing evidence shows that antibiotic resistance, the ability of bacteria to adapt and no longer respond to antibiotic treatment, is becoming one of the most serious global health concerns of our time.
At our holistic dental practice, we believe in a careful, evidence-based, and whole body approach to oral health. That means using antibiotics wisely and exploring natural strategies that support the body’s own defences whenever possible.
Why Antibiotic Resistance Matters in Dentistry
Dentists are responsible for nearly 10% of all antibiotic prescriptions worldwide. While these medications can be life saving when truly needed, unnecessary or repeated use increases the risk of resistance.
Consequences of antibiotic resistance include:
Harder to treat dental infections: Resistant bacteria may not respond to standard antibiotic treatments.
Longer recovery times: Patients may need multiple medications or stronger antibiotics.
Impact on overall health: Resistant bacteria in the mouth can spread to other areas of the body, leading to more serious systemic infections.
Weaker effectiveness of future antibiotics: What works today may no longer work tomorrow.
Holistic Strategies to Support Oral & Whole-Body Health
While antibiotics are sometimes essential, for example, in cases of spreading dental abscesses or systemic infection, we focus on prevention and natural support wherever possible:
1. Strengthening Natural Defences
Emphasising a nutrient rich diet with vitamin C, D, and zinc for strong immunity.
Recommending probiotics to help restore balance after antibiotic use.
2. Minimising Unnecessary Prescriptions
Careful evaluation before prescribing antibiotics, following international dental guidelines.
Encouraging patients to ask, “Do I really need antibiotics for this procedure?”
3. Harnessing Antimicrobial Botanicals
Using natural rinses and remedies such as clove and tea tree, which have been shown to reduce harmful bacteria.
Suggesting xylitol and herbal toothpastes to support healthy oral microbiota.
4. Patient Education & Empowerment
Teaching good daily oral care: brushing, flossing, tongue cleaning, and regular check-ups.
Explaining how lifestyle choices (hydration, sugar intake, stress management) reduce infection risk.
When Antibiotics Are Needed
There are times when antibiotics cannot be avoided, for example, in the case of:
Spreading dental abscesses
Severe gum infections not responding to mechanical cleaning
Systemic risk factors (e.g. heart conditions requiring prophylaxis)
In these cases, we prescribe the most appropriate antibiotic at the correct dose and duration, while supporting gut and immune health during recovery.
Our Commitment
As a holistic dental practice, our mission is to:
Prescribe responsibly, only when clearly indicated.
Support natural healing, using preventive and non-pharmaceutical approaches wherever safe.
Protect the future of antibiotics, ensuring they remain effective for generations to come.
Takeaway
Antibiotics are powerful, but they are not always the first or best line of defence. By combining modern dental science with holistic care, we can protect not only your oral health but also your whole body wellness and help reduce the global threat of antibiotic resistance.