Tooth infections are usually caused by bacteria, and antibiotics are often prescribed to treat them. The type of antibiotic recommended by a dentist or doctor will depend on the type of bacteria causing the infection and whether the patient is allergic to penicillin. Here are some of the antibiotics commonly used to treat tooth infections:
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Penicillin: This is a common form of antibiotic used to treat tooth infections. It includes drugs like penicillin and amoxicillin. Amoxicillin is usually the first choice for treatment, and it is effective against a wide range of bacteria. If a patient is allergic to penicillin, their dentist or doctor may prescribe a different antibiotic, such as clindamycin or erythromycin.
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Cephalexin: This is a cephalosporin antibiotic that is commonly used to treat dental infections. It is usually taken orally, but it is not recommended for patients with a penicillin allergy or a history of kidney disease or stomach/intestinal disease.
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Metronidazole: This antibiotic is sometimes prescribed with penicillin to cover a larger variety of bacterial species. It is not used by itself, and dentists often prescribe penicillin and metronidazole together to combat strains of bacteria that may be resistant to penicillin alone.
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Clindamycin: This is an antibiotic that may be prescribed if a patient is allergic to penicillin. It is effective against a wide range of bacteria, but it may cause more side effects than other antibiotics.
It is important to take the full course of antibiotics exactly as directed by a dentist or doctor to ensure that the infection is eradicated. Not doing so can make a recurring infection harder to treat. Antibiotics may have side effects such as rash, nausea, and diarrhea. It is also important to note that not all tooth infections require antibiotics. In some cases, a dentist may be able to drain the infected area, remove the infected tooth, or perform a root canal to fix the issue.