Abstract
This paper presents an overview of three of the most commonly encountered ‘superbugs’, with a comment on the implications of each for the dental practitioner. The origins of antibiotic resistant micro-organisms lie in the acquisition of resistance genes and selection pressures, with their spread facilitated by inappropriate prescribing and inadequate infection control. Dentists should attempt to rationalize their antibiotic prescribing and ensure that they and other dental staff adhere to standard infection control procedures.