When Your Dentist Prescribes Antibiotics

Has your dentist prescribed antibiotics for you to treat an infected tooth? Are you feeling back to normal? Sometimes after being in pain for a while, when it goes away, we tend to believe we are all better. It is not uncommon for a patient to stop taking medication once the immediate discomfort has been alleviated. However, just because you feel better, does not mean you are completely healed.

When Antibiotics are Necessary

Antibiotics are not always necessary. They do not treat toothaches. What they do is kill off bacteria. Antibiotics are not used to treat viruses, infections caused by fungi or cold sores. They are used to treat infections caused by bacteria.

When you have an infected tooth and your face or jaw is swollen or you have a fever, your dentist may prescribe an antibiotic to fight the infection. Sometimes a dentist may advise antibiotics be taken to prevent infection before proceeding with dental work. This is the case for some patients with diabetes and other medical conditions.

Sticking to the Program

It can be easy to stop taking medication once you feel better, but it is important to take all your medication in the way it is prescribed in order to successfully eliminate the infection. If you stop taking your antibiotics too soon, you may still have bacteria in your system that could start the infection again.

Your dentist will explain what dose you need to take and at what times you should take your medicine. You will also be given instructions as to whether or not you need to take it with food or water. Some medications can be affected by food or water. There are antibiotics that should be taken with food so you will not have an upset stomach, and others that should be taken on an empty stomach for better absorption.

Be sure to ask your dentist any questions you may have about the antibiotics you are prescribed. Also, let your dentist know about any drugs and supplements you are currently taking. Drug interactions can interrupt their effectiveness.

An infected tooth can be a source of pain and cause serious health issues if left untreated. When you have a toothache, call Sacramento Emergency Dentist to schedule an emergency dental appointment. Our dentists will diagnose your problem and get you back on the road to oral health.