Description
New clinical guidelines advise against routine antibiotic use for common dental infections in immunocompetent adults without systemic symptoms. An expert panel from the American Dental Association conducted a systematic review and issued evidence-based recommendations on managing symptomatic irreversible pulpitis, pulp necrosis, and related conditions. Using the GRADE methodology, they found that antibiotics offer minimal benefit and may cause significant harm in most cases, especially when definitive, conservative dental treatment (DCDT) is available. Antibiotics are recommended only when systemic symptoms (e.g., fever, malaise) are present or likely to develop. Prioritizing prompt DCDT remains the key to effective management.