Evaluation of Knowledge and Performance of General Dentists in Shiraz, Iran, Regarding Antibiotic Prescription in Endodontic Treatments (2024).

Background: Inappropriate antibiotic prescribing in dentistry contributes significantly to global antibiotic resistance. Clinical guidelines published by the American association of endodontists (AAE) explicitly state that clinicians should avoid prescribing antibiotics for uncomplicated dentoalveolar infections unless systemic symptoms are present. Evaluation of compliance with current antibiotic prescribing guidelines and identifying the gaps between knowledge and clinical performance of clinical practitioners is essential. Purpose: This study was conducted to assess the knowledge and clinical performance regarding antibiotic use in endodontic treatments among general dentists in Shiraz, Iran, regarding the latest AAE guidelines. Materials and Method: Value < 0.05). Results: = 0.019). No significant associations were found with gender, clinical experience, or workplace. Also, 88.3% expressed need for further training. Conclusion: Considering moderate to good knowledge, coupled with a low to moderate performance level, significant deviations from AAE guidelines highlight the need for targeted educational interventions, including workshops and curriculum integration, to improve antibiotic stewardship.