However, our recent study, which analysed existing international antibiotic prescribing guidelines, found that not all of them are of the same quality or equally reliable. Firstly, we found that not all dentists have a reference document, as only nine countries have guidelines on prescribing antibiotics for oral conditions. In general, the available guidelines agree that dentists should prescribe amoxicillin (a derivative of Fleming’s famous penicillin). 29% of the guidelines recommended metronidazole, 24% azithromycin, 24% clindamycin, 18% cephalosporins and 6% doxycycline. Improving all of these aspects could make it easier to follow guidelines and help dentists to make the best decisions.