Numerous antibiotics kill the common oral bacteria that cause infections. But what is the best antibiotic for a gum infection? Tooth decay, poor oral hygiene, traumatic injury, or previous dental work are possible reasons for this dental problem. So, if you have mouth pain, swelling, and sensitivity, go to Radiant Smiles Dental Group in Bundoora. These are just some indications of oral infections. Early treatment for this complication is essential since infection in the mouth is considered an emergency condition. Keep reading to learn more about tooth infections, along with the list of antibiotics to help treat an infection like gum disease.
Antibiotics and Tooth Infections: What To Know?
A tooth infection, otherwise called an abscessed tooth, usually develops due to tooth decay and poor oral hygiene. Once a condition occurs, it makes a pocket of pus structure in the mouth because of an overgrowth of bacteria. This bacterial infection frequently causes pain, swelling, and sensitivity in the area. If untreated, the dental infections may spread to other parts of the body.
Furthermore, anyone who encounters a dental infection should see a dentist immediately to keep the condition from progressing. Or then again, if you do not have a dentist yet, go to this website here and book your dental appointment.
When To Use Antibiotics For A Tooth Infection
Generally, your dentist will only prescribe antibiotics in dentistry for dental infections. Acute infections resolve on their own. Nevertheless, not all infected teeth need antibiotics. Sometimes, a dentist might simply drain the infected part, eliminate the infected tooth, or do a root canal treatment to solve the issue. In fact, dentists tend to avoid using antibiotics except if they are essential. This is particularly true when the infection is severe or spreading or if the patient has a weakened immune system. In addition, the sort of antibiotic you will require relies upon the type of bacteria causing the infection. Your dentist will choose an antibiotic that can effectively eliminate your condition.
How Much Should I Take and For How Long?
Most of the time, you will need to take antibiotics for about one week. Depending on the kind of antibiotic, you may require to take a portion two to four times each day.
Your doctor should give instructions on how to take the antibiotic. Or you can inquire the pharmacist if you are uncertain about how to take a medication.
Furthermore, keep in mind to always take the entire set of antibiotics given by your dentist, even if the issue seems to vanish. If you neglect to take the whole course, some bacteria might survive, making it difficult to treat the infection.
Types of Antibiotics For Bacterial Infections
A dental abscess may spread to the jaw or to the orbital area of your eyes. If that happens, you can also visit an eye specialist to know the right antibiotics you need to take. As a matter of fact, it is essential to use appropriate antibiotics in each situation, even though antibiotics can help clear infection.
Usually, your dentist may recommend topical or oral antibiotics, depending on your condition. This is because various antibiotics work in different ways to eliminate disease-causing bacteria.
In any case, here are some systemic or topical antibiotics that can help treat infection in your mouth.
Penicillin
This is a common form of antibiotics for oral infections such as tooth abscesses and periodontal disease. However, some bacteria might oppose these medications, making them less effective. As a matter of fact, several doctors currently opt for different antibiotics as their first line of treatment.
Amoxicillin
This drug does not kill bacteria but fights bacterial infection causing gingivitis. In fact, amoxicillin is ideal for preventing bacteria from forming walls that encompass them, which is how bacteria reproduce and survive.
In addition, some dentists may prescribe amoxicillin with clavulanic acid, as the blend may help dispose of more stubborn bacteria.
Tetracycline
Tetracycline is an antibiotic that fights infections caused by bacteria. It contains antibacterial properties that help reduce inflammation and block collagenase, which destroys the bone and connective tissue.
Azithromycin
This antibiotic is a popular drug to reduce bacterial growth related to periodontal disease. Doctors also recommend these oral antibiotics to decrease inflammation in those patients who are heavy smokers.
Ciprofloxacin
Ciprofloxacin is an antibiotic used to address several bacterial infections. However, this drug explicitly targets Actinobacillus, a slow-growing but harmful bacterium that promotes gum disease.
Flagyl (Metronidazole)
Dentists may prescribe metronidazole to those patients with severe periodontitis. In fact, this drug works best when utilized in combination with tetracycline or amoxicillin.
Clindamycin
Clindamycin treats numerous serious bacterial infections. This antibiotic works by stopping the development of bacteria.
Although taking antibiotics may help treat an infection, they are only a single piece of the solution. As a matter of fact, most types of gum disease and tooth infection can be addressed without antibiotics. If you are concerned about this, visit your doctor or dentist to determine the best treatment option for your condition.
References:
Abscessed Tooth.
https://www.medicinenet.com/abscessed_tooth_guide/article.htm
What to expect from root canal treatment.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/142780
What Are The Stages Of Gum Disease?
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/gum-disease/what-are-the-stages-of-gum-disease