Table 3.

 Factors that may help in choosing whether antibiotic prophylaxis will be prescribed when prophylaxis is optional

Arguments for prescription

Age >65 years

Associated conditions

Cardiac, renal, respiratory, and hepatic insufficiency

Diabetes mellitus

Acquired, constitutional or therapeutic (corticosteroids, immunosuppressive agents) immunodepression

Oral or dental condition

Inadequate oral or especially dental hygiene

Procedure

Important bleeding (intensity, duration)

Technically difficult procedure (prolonged procedure)

Patient’s opinion after receiving information

Arguments against prescription

Allergy to several antibiotics

Patient’s opinion after receiving information