Antibiotics are often prescribed to treat bacterial infections. Talk to your dentist about your symptoms. Your tooth may hurt when eating hot or cold foods or when you’re doing nothing at all. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen may ease pain in and around your tooth. However, take antibiotics only when they are prescribed to you.
If you have a fever, an infection may have spread beyond its original source and an antibiotic can help. If you have an infection that hasn’t spread, it might be treatable at the source. For example, a contained toothache probably won’t require antibiotics, but you might need dental treatment, such as a root canal, depending on the severity of the infection.
Don't share medication
What works for one person may not work for the next. The antibiotic prescribed for someone else’s fever may not treat your toothache and can cause unwanted side effects. Please trust the professionals. Your dentist knows what will work best for you.
Side effects
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and yeast infection are a few side effects associated with antibiotics. Make sure to tell your dentist if you’re allergic to any medications or if you experience side effects that don’t go away.
Keep antibiotics strong
The overuse of antibiotics can cause bacteria to become harder to kill. Misusing antibiotics may similarly contribute to the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Take antibiotics only when they are prescribed to you, and finish all the prescribed antibiotics.
This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
Brian Y. Kuo DDS FAGD
(626) 800-8022
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