The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) and Choosing Wisely Canada are collaborating for World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (November 18-24) to raise awareness about antimicrobial stewardship in community settings. Together, we aim to promote the responsible use of antibiotics within dentistry, reducing unnecessary prescriptions and combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

“Choosing Wisely Canada and CDA’s coordinated action to enhance awareness and understanding of AMR speaks to the seriousness of this global health challenge,” says Dr. Joel Antel, CDA President. “AMR is a growing public health threat, and as dental professionals, we have a crucial role to play to help reduce antimicrobial resistance and stopping the emergence of drug-resistant infections.”

This AMR Awareness Week, Choosing Wisely Canada, with support from CDA, will host a webinar on why antibiotics are not needed for toothache pain. Expert speakers from dentistry and primary care will provide alternative approaches for managing toothaches and tools for improving antibiotic prescribing in the community.

Also this week, Choosing Wisely Canada will release a new toolkit to help community and dental health professionals. Supported by CDA, the toolkit will provide practical guidance and resources, including frequently asked questions, an educational poster and patient information on alleviating toothaches without antibiotics. These resources aim to support dental and primary care professionals in taking a proactive role in antimicrobial stewardship, with a focus on enhancing patient care while minimizing the risks associated with antibiotic overuse.

“We are thrilled to partner with CDA and dental professionals in our collective efforts to address the global rise of AMR,” said Dr. Wendy Levinson, Chair of Choosing Wisely Canada. “Our tools provide practical improvement ideas that help health care providers make informed decisions, ensuring high-quality and safe patient care while promoting responsible antibiotic use.”

The webinar and toolkit will be launched this week, but the efforts to raise awareness will extend beyond World Antimicrobial Awareness Week. CDA and Choosing Wisely Canada are committed to continuing their collaborative efforts to enhance antimicrobial stewardship practices across Canada’s health care sector.

Learn More

• Antibiotic (antimicrobial) resistance
• Pan-Canadian Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance
• World AMR Awareness Week
• Antibiotics and Dental Care