Dental infection antibiotics: which ones work and when to use them
Got a painful, swollen tooth and wondering if you need antibiotics? Dental infections are common, but antibiotics aren’t always the answer. This page explains which drugs dentists commonly prescribe, when antibiotics actually help, simple dosing examples, and safety tips so you know what to expect.
Which antibiotics are commonly used
For routine tooth infections the most common choice is amoxicillin. It targets the usual oral bacteria and is well tolerated by most people. Typical adult dosing you might see is 500 mg three times daily or 875 mg twice daily — but follow your dentist’s prescription.
If the infection is more aggressive or you need broader coverage, dentists may prescribe amoxicillin with clavulanate (Augmentin). For patients allergic to penicillin, clindamycin is a frequent alternative; a common adult dose is 300 mg four times daily. Metronidazole (500 mg three times daily) is sometimes added when anaerobic bacteria are suspected.
Avoid doxycycline and tetracyclines in pregnant people and young children. Azithromycin can be used when other options aren’t suitable, but it’s not the first choice due to rising resistance.
When antibiotics help — and when they don't
Antibiotics help when infection is spreading or you have systemic signs: fever, increasing facial swelling, red streaks, swollen lymph nodes, or trouble breathing or swallowing. They’re also used when a dentist can’t drain the infection right away.
If your problem is a toothache without swelling or fever, antibiotics usually won’t fix the root cause. Most tooth infections need drainage, a root canal, or extraction. Using antibiotics as a substitute delays proper care and raises the risk of side effects.
Keep a few practical rules in mind. Always tell your dentist about allergies, pregnancy, and other meds (some antibiotics interact with blood thinners, for example). Finish the prescribed course unless your dentist tells you otherwise. Stopping early can let resistant bacteria survive.
Watch for side effects: nausea, diarrhea, or a rash. Clindamycin has a higher risk of causing C. difficile diarrhea — contact your dentist or doctor if you have severe watery diarrhea. If you develop hives, facial swelling, or trouble breathing after taking a drug, seek emergency care immediately.
Finally, if swelling spreads toward the eye, floor of the mouth, or you can’t breathe or swallow, go to the ER. Those signs suggest the infection may be life‑threatening and needs urgent treatment.
Want more detail or related articles? Check the linked posts tagged “dental infection antibiotics” for safe online pharmacy tips, antibiotic resistance news, and specific drug guides that can help you talk with your dentist or doctor.
