Abstract

This article reviews the characteristics of the main fluoroquinolones used in dentistry (ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin and moxifloxacin), including pharmacokinetic/ pharmacodynamic parameters, susceptibility profiles of oral bacteria and clinical trials on their efficacy in dental practice. It seems that some of these antibiotics might represent a safe alternative in patients with allergy, intolerance, or lack of response to beta-lactams.

Keywords: Antimicrobial susceptibility, ciprofloxacin, fluoroquinolones, focal infection, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, oral infection, oral pathogens