Amelia Sidwell, DrMedVet, was lead author of a recent review <Link> on the topic of using antibiotics for equine dental concerns, including best practices, things to avoid and more.
In an interview with Modern Equine Vet, Sidwell answered questions beginning with the specific clinical or diagnostic red flags veterinarians should use to call a horse “high-risk,” rather than a routine case in which antibiotics can be safely omitted.
Prophylactic antibiotic use around dental procedures remains widespread, yet evidence suggests it is often unnecessary, Sidwell says. It carries risks, including disruption of the oral and gastrointestinal microbiomes and promotion of resistance.
Source: Modern Equine Vet, July 2026. Link.
Antibiotics should be reserved for cases that meet clear clinical criteria and should not be used routinely to ‘optimize’ surgical outcomes when evidence does not support their benefit.”
INSIGHTS: “Satisfying client expectations” and “fear” are known to be major non-clinical drivers for antibiotic use. Sidwell addresses how to reassure clients that you are not withholding care by withholding antibiotics. It is the safest option for their horse, including the possible long-term effect on the microbiome.
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