Rising Dental Antibiotic Resistance Alarms WHO
The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised fresh concerns about the global rise of antibiotic resistance, warning that this growing threat is now affecting nearly every area of healthcare — including dentistry. The report highlights that overuse and misuse of antibiotics in dental practice have become significant contributors to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a crisis that could make even simple infections much harder to treat in the near future.
In dentistry, antibiotics are often prescribed as a precaution for infections or after surgical procedures, such as extractions and root canals. However, studies show that many dental antibiotic prescriptions are unnecessary or inappropriate — either for non-bacterial pain or for infections that could be treated locally without antibiotics. According to WHO’s 2025 update, global resistance rates among common oral pathogens have risen by nearly 20% in the past five years, reflecting an urgent need for stewardship and education within the dental community.
The organization also noted that dentists account for a considerable portion of all antibiotic prescriptions worldwide, making dental professionals key players in reversing the trend. In countries like Canada and the UK, professional bodies are already promoting stricter guidelines on antibiotic prescribing, urging practitioners to use targeted treatments only when clinically indicated.
Experts warn that the continued rise of resistance could lead to a future where routine dental procedures — such as implants, periodontal surgeries, or even simple extractions — carry higher risks of serious infection. In response, WHO is calling for global cooperation to develop better diagnostics, strengthen regulation of antibiotic use, and enhance patient awareness about when these drugs are truly necessary.
While antibiotics have been essential in controlling dental infections for decades, this new data underscores a vital message: responsible prescribing is no longer optional — it’s essential for the future of oral and overall health.
Original Article:
“Antibiotic resistance keeps climbing, WHO warns.” Oral Health Group, October 14, 2025.