What to Know About Antibiotics for Tooth Infections

With Children’s Dental Month upon us, now is one of the best times to talk about a very serious oral healthcare problem that affects over a third of the population at some point in their lives. We’re talking about toothaches and pain, and when you need antibiotics for tooth infections.

It usually starts with a bad toothache with a deep, lingering ache or stinging pain…but tooth infections can also crop up suddenly and without warning. Sufferers often find themselves in intense pain, prompting ER and emergency dental visits.

But how do these infections begin, and how are they treated? Is there anything you can do to prevent them or treat them at home? Are antibiotics for tooth infections always needed?

We’ll address these questions here.

How a Tooth Infection Happens

It’s no secret that tooth infections can cause absolutely excruciating pain, especially if they aren’t treated. But how exactly do they unfold?

First, know that dental hygiene isn’t always to blame. Some people simply seem more prone to tooth infections than others. This may be due to genetics or past tooth damage that allows bacteria to creep in.

Most tooth infections begin when good bacteria in the mouth fails to keep bad bacteria in check. Germs creep up and under the gumline, or enter the tissue below the tooth, where they gain access to the tooth root. This produces immediate and often excruciating pain that can refer up and into the jaw or face.

Some patients won’t have symptoms from a tooth infection until the infection is already severe. Others will see obvious signs, such as:

• • • Swelling
    • Redness
    • Inflamed tissue

Tooth abscesses (small lumps filled with fluid or pus) may develop along the gumline; this is the body attempting to “wall it off” and prevent it from spreading. If enough time passes, an abscess may burst or begin to drain, leaving a foul smell and taste in the mouth.

Eventually, infection within the root of the tooth will cause the tooth itself to die, making a root canal or full extraction necessary. However, this often takes a significant amount of time. This, plus the risk for more severe complications, is why early intervention is so critical.

Who is At Risk for Tooth Infections?

Anyone who has even a single tooth is potentially at risk for tooth infections. However, some populations are more affected than others. Children and teens, seniors, the immunocompromised, and people with immunocompromising illnesses, like Diabetes or cancer, are the most at risk. But tooth infections can affect anyone at any age who are at any level of dental “health.”

Some people seem to struggle with infections and oral healthcare problems more often than others, too. This may be due to genetic conditions like variations in the gene beta-defensin 1 (DEFB1) or amelogenesis imperfecta. Your dentist can help you identify whether you have this condition.

More Serious Complications

There is a good reason why dentists and doctors support antibiotics for tooth infections and issues. A severe tooth infection can be life-threatening.

The biggest risk is that bacteria can migrate into the surrounding tissues, like the neck, head, or jawbone. This is very serious; bone infections are not only extremely painful, but also notoriously difficult to treat. In some cases, patients may even need surgery to remove a portion of the bone where large pockets of infection exist.

Although it is rare, a severe untreated tooth infection can eventually spread to the brain, causing brain abscess and/or encephalitis. Other risks include sepsis, an infection of the blood, and endocarditis, an infection of the heart.

Common Antibiotics for Tooth Infections

Disclaimer: never take leftover or second-hand antibiotics for any infection, including a toothache. While we have listed the most common options below, no two infections present in exactly the same way. Taking the wrong antibiotic could make your infection worse and leave you at heightened risk for serious side effects.

If your dentist or doctor does suggest antibiotics for tooth infections, he or she will probably prescribe you one or more of the following options:

• • Penicillins, including Amoxi-Clav or Amoxicillin.
  • Macrolides, including Clindamycin or Clarithromycin
  • Sulfonamides and trimethoprim, including Metronidazole or Tinidazole.

Note that these are only the most commonly prescribed options – your doctor may prescribe you something different depending on your condition.

Generally, antibiotics for tooth infections are given orally for a period of between seven to 10 days when oral infection is present. However, if your infection is particularly severe, or your doctor believes it has begun to spread, he or she may suggest IV therapy.

Are Antibiotics Always Needed?

Usually – but not always. While you should always begin with an appointment with a medical professional to be sure, there are simple steps you can take to prevent or even reverse an infection.

• • Regular brushing and flossing can help prevent infections from taking hold in the first place because it flushes bacteria out of the mouth. Try your best to brush and floss at least twice per day. Three times per day is even better. But don’t brush immediately after meals or soft drinks; this can wear away enamel, especially if you ingest anything acidic. Wait 15 minutes before you brush.
  • Use flouride toothpaste, as it helps to protect and even rebuild enamel over time. This prevents caries, which can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Non-fluoride toothpastes do work to remove debris, but they aren’t effective at protecting enamel in the same way.
  • Antibacterial mouthwash may help, especially if you are particularly prone to oral infections. However, it should be noted that mouthwash doesn’t discriminate between good bacteria and bad. Overuse can actually raise your risk for certain infections – particularly thrush.
  • Dental compounding may offer an alternative to oral antibiotics in some cases. For example, topical pain relievers and/or debriding antibacterial treatments may be enough to resolve a low-level infection. They can also be used to prevent anxiety or an infection before and after dental surgeries, such as extraction.
  • Staying hydrated might seem simple, but it matters because the amount of fluids you take in directly impacts how much saliva you produce. A healthy level of saliva directly combats bad germs in the mouth and creates a more hospitable environment for good bacteria.
  • Seeing your dentist every six to 12 months also matters. Many infections simmer at a low level and don’t produce symptoms right away. Your dentist can identify this within the scope of a regular examination.

The biggest takeaway here? If you suspect you have an infection, don’t leave it untreated. See your doctor, dentist, or pharmacist for help. Oral healthcare is so important and impactful that it should always be addressed promptly.

And if you need more information about how a compounding pharmacy can help, contact Burt’s Rx today! We offer services such as pediatric compounding, pet compounding, compounded medication for pain management, and BHRT.

Typical Questions About Tooth Infections