THE ROLE OF PROPHYLACTIC ANTIBIOTICS IN PEDIATRIC ORAL SURGERY: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

The use of prophylactic antibiotics in pediatric oral surgery has been a subject of considerable debate within the
medical community . This systematic literature review aims to evaluate the effectiveness, risks, and current
recommendations associated with the use of prophylactic antibiotics in pediatric patients undergoing oral surgical
procedures. A comprehensive search of relevant databases was conducted to identify studies assessing the outcomes
of prophylactic antibiotic administration in pediatric oral surgery, including infection rates, complications, and
overall surgical success. The findings suggest that while prophylactic antibiotics may reduce the risk of
postoperative infections in certain high-risk pediatric populations, their routine use in all pediatric oral surgeries is
not universally recommended. This review discusses factors influencing the decision to administer antibiotics,
including the type of procedure, the patient’s health status, and existing guidelines. The results highlight the
importance of tailored antibiotic use to balance the benefits of infection prevention with the risks of antibiotic
resistance and adverse effects. Further research is needed to establish definitive protocols that can guide clinical
practice in pediatric oral surgery.