Endodontics in the adult patient: the role of antibiotics

Objectives: The aim of this study was to review the published work on the i ndications and efficacy for antibiotics in endodontic therapy. Data sources: Published works in the medical and dental Literature. Study selection: Evaluation of published clinical trials in endodontic and other pertinent Literature. Conclusions: Antibiotics are not routinely indicated in the practice of end odontics. Therapeutic antibiotics may be required as an adjunct to operativ e treatment when there is pyrexia and/or gross local swelling; they are onl y rarely indicated in the absence of operative intervention. Prophylactic a ntibiotics may be required for certain patients who are susceptible to seri ous infective sequaelae. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd, All rights reserved .