Amoxicillin for Tooth Infection | Essential Dental Health

Dental caries, tooth infection, and dental abscess are commonly reported dental problems that could affect people of all age groups. Poor dental hygiene is often the contributing factor for these dental problems. If one doesn’t brush or floss teeth regularly, bacteria can multiply and act on the food debris that remains lodged between the teeth. At times, the tooth structure gets damaged due to trauma. Under such circumstances, the bacteria can travel through the openings in the damaged tooth to the living pulp tissue, thereby causing an infection. In some cases, the administration of antibiotics such as amoxicillin can prove beneficial. This drug is available in the form of chewable tablets, tablets, syrups, and powder. More often than not, oral administration of tablets is recommended for treating a tooth infection. For children, the use of syrups might be recommended. The use of injections is recommended in severe cases. Basically, this antibiotic works by stopping the growth of bacteria.

What is Amoxicillin Used for?

Amoxicillin is a prescription antibiotic that is based on penicillin. It is effectual for a wide range of bacterial infections such as:

➠ Urinary tract infection
➠ Respiratory infection
➠ Skin infection
➠ Ear infection
➠ Sinus infection
➠ Gonorrhea
➠ Ulcers

Penicillin antibiotics such as amoxicillin are often used for the treatment of dental infections. Its effectiveness depends on how far the tooth infection has spread. In some cases, combination therapy is followed.

Mechanism of Action

The biological activity of amoxicillin involves inhibiting the multiplication of bacteria by arresting the growth of bacterial cell wall. Thus, it belongs to the beta-lactam group of bactericidal antibiotics. Without a cell wall, the bacterial cells disintegrate, leading to their death over time. The earlier amoxicillin antibiotic is taken for tooth infection, the better would be the outcome.

Safe/Recommended Dosage

The safest amoxicillin dose for the treatment of a tooth infection or tooth abscess is 250 mg about 3 times a day, i.e., after every 8 hours for 10 days. In severe cases, the dose for adults may be increased to 500 mg three times per day for a week. To get prompt results, make sure that the course is completed.

Side Effects

The side effects include:

➠ Skin rashes
➠ Nauseated feeling
➠ Vomiting
➠ Loose stools
➠ Abdominal discomfort

Sometimes, children might develop nonallergic skin rashes after taking this beta-lactam antibiotic. Very rarely, it induces sleep disturbances, lack of concentration, mental changes, etc. To minimize the risk of side effects, avoid self administration of this antibiotic.

Contraindications

➠ Some people are allergic to this prescription medication. Thus, if you have previously experienced an allergic reaction to amoxicillin or any other antibiotic, you should inform your healthcare provider.
➠ Individuals who are affected by asthma, kidney disorders, or liver problems should inform the doctor about their condition.
➠ It should be taken by pregnant women or nursing mothers only under medical supervision.

Being an antibiotic, amoxicillin will help treat an infection that is caused by a bacterium. It is not an analgesic, which is why your healthcare provider might also prescribe other drugs for alleviating tooth pain. It’s extremely essential to complete the course, as discontinuing the medicine too soon can cause the bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics.

Related Posts