Amoxicillin For Dental Abscess: How It Works & When To Use It

A dental abscess can be very painful, with symptoms including severe tooth or gum ache, difficulty chewing and a high temperature. Therefore, anyone who thinks they have one should try to get it treated as soon as possible with a course of antibiotics, such as amoxicillin. 

What is a dental abscess and how is it caused?

A dental abscess occurs when there is an infection in the mouth, and this leads to an accumulation of pus in the teeth, gums or the bone that holds the teeth in place. 

It happens when teeth are not kept adequately clean, as bacteria builds in the mouth. This produces plaque, which contains acids and these can damage teeth and gums. 

Bacteria thrives on the presence of sugar, which means it not only erodes tooth enamel, it causes a growth of bacteria that could lead to an oral infection. 

Therefore, consuming too much sugary food or drink can increase the risk of a dental abscess, as it encourages bacteria to grow. This can cause teeth to decay, which often leads to a dental abscess. 

Smoking and drinking lots of alcohol are also known to irritate the mouth, so it is sensible to be mindful of this. 

Cleaning teeth thoroughly lowers the risk of infection, as bacteria is brushed away; however, not brushing regularly or well enough means there is a greater chance of getting one. 

At the same time, a tooth injury or tooth decay can also risk getting an infection, as these create gaps for bacteria to get into. The same is true if there are cuts in the mouth, as this enables bacteria to enter. 

A poor immune system can also increase the risk of infection, which is why it is important to improve diet and exercise to strengthen immunity. 

Those with underlying health conditions or undergoing immunosuppressant treatment, such as chemotherapy, should, therefore, be extra vigilant with their oral care.

Symptoms of a dental abscess

Most people who have a dental abscess will know because it will be very painful, but this is not the only symptom. Here are others that are worth keeping an eye out for:

Spreading pain

Not only will the tooth or gum ache, but the pain often spreads to the ear, jaw or neck on the same side. Many people also find the pain worsens when they are lying down, and gradually increases over time. 

Swelling

There is also likely to be swelling in the face and it could appear red, as the infection takes hold.

Red gums

Equally, gums could also show signs of an infection by being red, shiny or swollen. 

Sensitive to food and drink

Although the tooth pain is likely to come on suddenly and remain, it could worsen when drinking hot or cold food or drink. This increased sensitivity, as well as a difficulty opening the mouth, can make it hard to consume foods or liquids. 

Unpleasant taste

Many people also complain of having an unpleasant taste in their mouth, even if they are not eating. This will be the result of the infection, and can cause bad breath as well. 

How can amoxicillin help a dental abscess?

It is important that anyone who thinks they have a dental abscess seeks help as soon as possible, so they can receive treatment immediately and relieve their pain. 

They can access help through an online pharmacy, which enables them to receive prescription medication quickly, as opposed to waiting a long time for an appointment. 

Patients are likely to be prescribed amoxicillin, which is an effective dental abscess antibiotic. This works by preventing the infection spreading and stopping them from growing. 

Taking amoxicillin, therefore, gives the immune system some time to fight the infection. 

However, it is important to speak to a dentist first, as not everyone necessarily needs antibiotics. For instance, for those whose infection is contained in one area, the body may be able to fight the bacteria alone. 

The sooner a suspected dental abscess is seen to, therefore, the better, as avoiding taking the amoxicillin can reduce the chances of antimicrobial resistance in the future. 

How long does amoxicillin take to work?

Although patients will be relieved to receive their amoxicillin, it is unlikely to have a huge effect with the first dose or two. This is because it needs some time for levels to build up in the body. 

It is, therefore, important to continue taking the entire course of antibiotics, as the infection might not fully have been killed. If it continues to grow, it could even return more resistant to antibiotics. 

By finishing the course, patients can be confident the infection has been totally cleared, so they do not have to worry about a recurrence. 

It typically only takes a few days to clear the infection, even though it can feel like a long time for those suffering with intense tooth or gum pain. 

How to relieve symptoms during treatment

As well as taking the amoxicillin at the prescribed intervals, it is worth looking after yourself too, as this will help with recovery. 

Making sure to drink plenty of water and get lots of rest is important, as this will increase immunity and help the body fight the infection. 

Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water could help to reduce the swelling and make eating or drinking more comfortable. It is also sensible to avoid consuming hard foods that put too much pressure on the teeth or crunchy food that can feel uncomfortable in the mouth. 

Taking ibuprofen will also relieve pain until the infection is cleared, as well as use a soft toothbrush to avoid discomfort.

Start your online consultation if you think you need dental abscess antibiotics.