New ADS antibiotic stewardship guidelines aim to curb overprescribing in dentistry

The Association for Dental Safety (ADS) is using US Antibiotic Awareness Week (November 18-24) to spotlight a major update: its new Antibiotic Stewardship Policy Statement. The organization says the goal is simple but urgent—support dental teams in prescribing antibiotics only when they’re truly needed.

Antibiotic stewardship has been a growing priority in dentistry, especially as antimicrobial resistance continues to climb. ADS’s new guidance outlines best practices for clinicians, educators, and industry partners, reinforcing when antibiotics are appropriate and when alternative approaches are safer and more effective.

Michelle Lee, ADS executive director, notes that the organization has spent the past four years building momentum in this space through national summits and practical chairside resources.

"We have empowered dental professionals to make informed prescribing decisions for their patients and the public at large," Lee said. "The responsibility of dental professionals extends beyond individual patient care—we must work together to confront the threat of antimicrobial resistance.” 

ADS encourages dental teams to use this week as a reminder to review their prescribing habits, refresh staff training, and share stewardship messaging with patients.

More details and the full policy are available at myads.org/antibiotic-stewardship-policy-2025.