Methods: The study was a cross-sectional one conducted by means of a pre-tested self-administered questionnaire distributed to all the dentists available in all the departments. The questionnaire sought information on knowledge of antibiotic prescription as well as on clinical and non-clinical factors that may determine why the practitioners would prescribe antibiotics. Data obtained was analyzed using Epi Info 6 statistical software.
Results: Of the 88 questionnaires distributed, 77 (88.5%) were retrieved.
46.8% of the respondents had less than 5 years of clinical experience post graduation and 29.9% had more than 10 years of clinical experience.
57.1% were aware of the incidence of penicillin allergy and majority was aware of the alternative antibiotics for patients allergic to penicillin.
Knowledge on antibiotic prophylaxis was relatively low concerning some high risk dental procedures for patients at risk of infective endocarditis and medical conditions requiring prophylaxis.
Over one-third of the respondents tended towards prescribing antibiotics for dental conditions which local mechanical therapy would have sufficed.
Amoxillin and metronidazole were the most frequently prescribed. Majority of respondents tended towards combination therapy.
Almost half of the respondents rarely or never sent samples for microbiology, culture and sensitivity (MCS). Respondents with more clinical experience had better knowledge and fewer tendencies to over prescribing antibiotics.
Conclusion: There was inadequate knowledge concerning prophylactic antibiotic prescription. There is also a tendency for over prescribing antibiotics where such is not indicated. This may lead to possible emergence of resistant strains and other side effects. Continuing education programmes may help to improve knowledge and correct this misuse.