There is nothing worse than a toothache, right? Sometimes, along with this pain, the gums swell, reaching the cheek, and it becomes so difficult to even talk. When you look in the mirror, you can see a small lump filled with pus on the gum. We call this a "tooth abscess" or "tooth abscess". When you see a dentist at a time like this, in addition to the treatment for the tooth, you may also be given antibiotics. So today, let's talk about the antibiotics given for these tooth infections.
Why do our teeth get infections like this?
Simply put, our mouths are home to millions of bacteria, both good and bad. They usually don't cause any problems. However, if you have a cavity, a cracked tooth, or gum disease, these bacteria can find their way into your teeth.
The bacteria that get inside multiply rapidly and cause an infection. In response, our body's immune system starts to fight the bacteria. As a result of this fight , pus is formed. This pus collects and forms the tooth abscess that we see. If this is not treated quickly, the infection can spread throughout the mouth, to the jawbone, and in the most severe cases, to important organs such as the brain.
What types of antibiotics does the doctor prescribe for a toothache?
Your dentist will choose the most appropriate antibiotic for you based on the type of bacteria causing the tooth infection. Not everyone is given the same medication. There are several types that are commonly used.
| Antibiotic Class | Description and examples |
|---|---|
| Penicillin group | These are the most common first-line drugs. Examples: Amoxicillin , Penicillin V. Sometimes, a drug called Clavulanate is given with Amoxicillin. |
| Cephalosporins | These are used for people who are allergic to penicillin or for other reasons. Examples: Cephalexin . |
| Nitroimidazoles | There are cases where it is given together with other antibiotics. Example: Metronidazole . |
| Macrolides | Another option for people allergic to penicillin. Examples: Azithromycin , Erythromycin . |
| Lincosamides | These are used for more severe infections that have not responded to other antibiotics. Examples: Clindamycin . |
Do you need this medicine for every toothache?
No. This is where many people make a mistake. Not all tooth infections require antibiotics. A dentist will usually prescribe antibiotics in the following cases:
- If the infection is very severe .
- If the infection is spreading to other areas (e.g., swelling of the cheek, neck).
- If you have a weakened immune system (e.g. diabetes, cancer), even a minor infection can quickly become severe.
- Prevent infection after a tooth extraction or other surgery.
In most cases, dental treatment, such as removing the pus from the tooth, performing a root canal, or extracting a tooth that cannot be cured, can control the infection. Antibiotics are just an additional aid.
Can antibiotics cause side effects?
Yes. Like any medicine, antibiotics can cause minor side effects. But these are usually not serious.
Common side effects
- Feeling dizzy
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vaginal yeast infections in women
If these symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they get worse, tell your doctor. For example, severe diarrhea that lasts for several days could be a sign of another bacterial infection called Clostridium difficile (C. diff).
Symptoms of a dangerous allergic reaction
This is a very rare occurrence, but it is important to be aware of these symptoms.
| Severe allergic symptoms that require immediate medical attention | |
|---|---|
| ⚫ Blistering on the body, especially on the palms and soles of the feet. | |
| ⚫ Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat (feeling like your throat is blocked). | |
| ⚫ Difficulty breathing or a "whooping" sound coming from the chest. | |
If any of these severe symptoms occur, go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately . This is very important for saving lives.
How exactly do you use this medicine?
This is the most important thing. It is essential to take the medicine exactly as prescribed by the doctor, for the full duration of time.
- Take the full course of medication: Don't stop taking the medication after two or three days, just because the pain has subsided. If you do, the bacteria that were not completely killed can grow back and the infection can come back. Also, the bacteria can develop antibiotic resistance, making the medication ineffective the next time you take it.
- Take the prescribed dose at the prescribed time: Check the medicine label for how many times a day, before or after meals, and take it exactly as directed.
- Ask if it's not clear: If you have any questions about how to take your medication, ask your doctor for clarification.
Can't this be treated with things at home?
Absolutely not. There is no such thing as a "natural antibiotic" that can cure a tooth infection. Some people try things like gargling with warm salt water and oil pulling. While these can temporarily reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth and provide some relief from the pain, they do not cure the infection inside the tooth.
Antibiotics are medications that should only be taken on the recommendation of a doctor. Don't go to a pharmacy and ask for them as you please. That will do more harm than good.
Take-Home Message
- A tooth infection (tooth abscess) cannot be cured with antibiotics alone. It is essential to have the necessary dental treatment (e.g. root canal, tooth extraction). Antibiotics are only a support for that.
- Take the full course of antibiotics prescribed by the doctor, for the full number of days prescribed. Do not stop halfway.
- If you develop severe allergic symptoms (swelling of the face/throat, difficulty breathing) after taking the medicine, go to a hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately .
- If you have tooth pain, swelling, or signs of an abscess, see a dentist without delay.
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