Abstract

Introduction: This article aims to weigh in on the concept of prophylactic antibiotic therapy in the extraction of third molars. Materials: There are four indications for antibiotic prophylaxis: 1. Antibiotic is administered to prevent bacterial contamination of the operating field. 2. Procedures have a high infection rate 3. Antibiotic Prophylaxis should be considered for surgical procedures where the incidence of infection is low although there may be high mortality rate following infection 4. When a foreign body is inserted into the tissues Use of antibiotics is reported to reduce the infection rate, but inappropriate antibiotic administration can lead to development of side effects. The infection rate of surgically removed impacted teeth is found to be quite low however it is higher for immunocompromised patients. Conclusion: The decision about whether or not to administer prophylactic antibiotic regiment must be made based on the individual’s requirement. In case of high risk patients, it may be undertaken, but if the patient