Knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding antibiotic prescribing by dentists: a qualitative study in Chile

BACKGROUND: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the greatest threats to public health. As dentists play a major role in the prescription of antibiotics, the aim of this study was to study knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding antibiotic prescribing in dentistry. METHODS: We conducted a qualitative study on dentists in Chile, using the focus-group (FG) method. To form the groups, the inclusion criteria required participants: (i) to be graduates in dentistry; and (ii) be practising as dentists or dental surgeons at the date of study. Transcriptions of the FG sessions were analysed using the thematic analysis technique. RESULTS: Six FG with 27 participants were developed. The factors and attitudes identified in antibiotic prescribing were cultural and social context; need of patient expectations; external responsibility; patient pressure; and healthcare burden. Dentists considered the control of medicines and education of the population to be essential. Additionally, the participants stressed the importance of knowledge about antibiotic use. CONCLUSION: This study identified key factors such as the culture of trivialisation of antibiotic use and the need to prevent the sale of antibiotics in non-healthcare markets. In addition, there is a need for strategies targeted at modifying the knowledge, attitudes and practices.