As patients warn about C. diff risks, Georgia seeks data on dentists' antibiotic use

DPH is surveying dentists as they renew their licenses to understand prescribing habits, in hopes of preventing overuse and antibiotic resistance.

Author: Rebecca Lindstrom

Published: 10:24 AM EDT June 8, 2026

Next year, dentists renewing their licenses in Georgia may have to complete a new survey to help the state better understand antibiotic prescribing habits.

11Alive Investigates learned about the Department of Public Health survey while researching the dangerous and often deadly connection to the antibiotic Clindamycin.

The antibiotic has long been prescribed by some dentists before and after dental procedures to prevent infection, especially for those with a penicillin allergy.

Medical experts say all antibiotics carry risks, but Clindamycin is associated with one of the highest risks of developing Clostridioides difficile, commonly known as C. diff. It's a bacterial infection that can cause severe diarrhea, chronic gastrointestinal problems, and, in some cases, life-threatening complications.

Last month, 11Alive reported on patients who said they developed debilitating C. diff infections after taking Clindamycin prescribed for dental care. Some told 11Alive they were unaware of the risks before taking the medication and believe stronger warnings are needed.

Research and changing medical guidelines have already begun to alter prescribing practices in dentistry.

Dr. Dan Gesek, president-elect of the Florida Dental Association and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon in Jacksonville, Florida, said studies examining preventive antibiotic use have found little benefit in some situations where the drugs were routinely prescribed.

"One of the studies actually showed … there was no real statistical difference, except that those that got the antibiotic had a higher incidence of bacterial resistance," Gesek said.

As a result, he said the dental profession is moving toward more targeted use of antibiotics.

"The way we're heading in the future is really trying to limit the use and amount of antibiotics in general," Gesek said.

Additional research suggests education may be one of the most effective tools for changing prescribing habits.

One study found that dentists who completed antibiotic stewardship training significantly reduced their use of Clindamycin. Participants in the study also reported that the training should be required for all dentists.

Antibiotic stewardship programs are designed to help health care providers determine when antibiotics are truly necessary and which medications pose the lowest risk to patients.

Experts caution that antibiotics remain important and often lifesaving medications when used appropriately. However, they encourage patients to ask questions about why a drug is being prescribed, whether alternatives are available, and which side effects to watch for.

Health officials hope that information gathered through Georgia's survey will help shape future educational efforts to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use while protecting patients from preventable complications.