Objectives: 

• Define the etiology of bacteremia and identify the incidence of bacteremia reported for daily activities vs. a dental cleaning. 
• Review the history of antibiotic prophylaxis.
• Understand the current AHA, ADA and AAOS guidelines for antibiotic prophylaxis prior to dental procedures. 
• Examine the role of dental professionals toward antibiotic stewardship.
• Recognize that maintenance of good oral health and regular access to dental care is more important than AP for a dental procedure.

Compared with previous recommendations, there are currently very few patients who require antibiotic prophylaxis (AP) prior to dental procedures. The purpose of this course is to help dental professionals understand the current guidelines for AP prior to dental procedures. We will examine the growing concern for antibiotic resistance and the role of dental professionals toward antibiotic stewardship. This course will also focus on the 2021 AHA Scientific Statement which reaffirms the 2007 recommendations that emphasizes good oral health and regular access to dental care as more important that AP for a dental procedure.