Overview
A tooth infection can be effectively treated with prescription medications due to its nature and severity. It is usually a bacterial or viral infection, making it difficult for any over-the-counter medications to resolve. Over-the-counter antibiotics can help manage bacterial growth that leads to infection only when used in conjunction with proper knowledge of bacterial infections and their causes. It’s essential to determine the cause and severity of your infection through proper healthcare consultation and examination.
Can I buy antibiotics for a tooth infection over the counter?
Typically, bacteria cause tooth infections, and antibiotics are necessary for effective treatment. Some antiseptic formulations can be obtained over the counter, but oral antibiotics require a prescription.
Some of the best over-the-counter options for tooth infections and to treat related pain are:
Pain relievers
Some of the best and mainly obtained pain relievers are
- Ibuprofen (Advil) can significantly help reduce inflammation and pain in the gums or mouth associated with dental abscesses and infections.
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol) relieves pain but lacks anti-inflammatory properties. It is only taken to manage pain caused by the infection.
- Aspirin is also considered one of the most effective options for reducing pain and inflammation. It’s not recommended for children due to its blood-thinning properties and gastrointestinal disturbances associated with aspirin.
Antiseptics and topical treatments
Antiseptics play a crucial role in cleaning and preventing the spread of infection. Some of the best OTC options for antiseptics include:
- Hydrogen Peroxide: It’s a diluted hydrogen peroxide rinse that can help reduce bacteria in the mouth. It also provides a very fresh and relieved feeling in the mouth after incubation and alleviates pain due to dental infection.
- Benzocaine: It’s a topical anesthetic that numbs the affected area to relieve pain temporarily. Only after a complete diagnosis is a prescription for effective treatment prescribed.
- Antiseptic Mouthwash: Any or all antiseptic mouthwashes can help reduce bacteria in the mouth and maintain oral hygiene very effectively. Some also have flavors added to them for a better aftertaste.
- Some Natural Remedies, such as a saltwater rinse and the use of garlic and clove oil, are the best-recommended options to treat not only pain but also infection in the mouth. These are preferred due to their zero side effects when consumed in any form.
- A cold compress can also be considered a good option if other remedies are not effective. It also significantly helps reduce swelling of the gums and cheeks due to infection.
Prescription antibiotics for tooth infections
Most dental infections require antibiotics, proper diagnosis, and a prescription to receive the most effective treatment. Some of the most prescribed prescription options for treating dental infections are :
- Amoxicillin belongs to the penicillin class of antibiotics. It works by directly killing the bacteria. It’s essential to complete the full dosage duration of antibiotics to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance.
- The dose of amoxicillin usually prescribed by healthcare providers is 500 mg every 8 hours or 875 mg every 12 hours.
- Penicillin VK (Penicillin potassium) also belongs to the penicillin class, with potassium having additive effectiveness for effective and long-term relief. It also helps prevent relapse of infection. The dose of Penicillin potassium prescribed to adults is 500 mg every 6 hours.
- Clindamycin belongs to the lincomycin antibiotic class, which treats infection by stopping bacterial growth that eventually leads to the death of bacteria. The dose for clindamycin prescribed is 300 mg every 6 to 8 hours.
- Metronidazole is an effective antibiotic that treats various bacterial infections, including skin infections, oral infections, reproductive system infections, and rosacea. The prescribed dose for metronidazole is 500 mg every 6 to 8 hours.
- Azithromycin: 500 mg on the first day, followed by 250 mg once daily for the next four days.
- Cephalexin: 500 mg every 6 hours.
How long does it take for antibiotics to work on a tooth infection?
It depends on the nature of the bacterial infection. Typically, it takes 24-48 hours for medications to reach their maximum effectiveness.
Dr. Richard says completing the dosage regimen your healthcare provider prescribes is important to avoid resistance development.
He added that it would also wholly and effectively treat the infection.
Do all dental infections need antibiotics?
Yes. Almost all dental infections are bacterial and need antibiotics. The following are some exceptions:
1. Localized infections that get treated on their own and do not need medications to treat. They are infections on a lower scale that do not cause any significant symptoms.
2. Home remedies can effectively treat early-stage infections that are yet to be developed and do not require medications at first hand.
3. Non-bacterial infections that are viral or of any other nature do not need antibiotics
4. Post-dental procedures.
FAQs about antibiotics for tooth infections
Typically, it takes 48 hours or a week for antibiotics to reach their maximum effect. If your tooth infection is not improving with antibiotics, consult your healthcare provider immediately to receive an accurate diagnosis of your infection.
If breathing becomes difficult and swelling occurs, there is a chance that your tooth infection has spread to your jaw or deep into your throat. It happens because of the delayed diagnosis or zero medication compliance.
