Odontogenic infection dosing: clear, practical antibiotic guidance

A tooth or gum infection can spread fast. Getting the right drug, dose, and length of treatment matters. This page gives simple, commonly used dosing options for odontogenic infections and quick tips for when to call your dentist or doctor.

Common antibiotics and typical doses

Amoxicillin — Adults: 500 mg every 8 hours or 875 mg every 12 hours. Kids: 25–50 mg/kg/day divided every 8–12 hours (use weight-based dosing on product label). Amoxicillin is the first-line choice for many simple tooth infections.

Amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin) — Adults: 500/125 mg every 8 hours or 875/125 mg every 12 hours. Use when you suspect beta-lactamase producing bacteria or after treatment failure with amoxicillin.

Penicillin V — Adults: 500 mg every 6–8 hours. A traditional option where available, but amoxicillin is often preferred for better absorption.

Clindamycin — Adults: 300–450 mg every 6–8 hours. Kids: 8–20 mg/kg/day divided every 6–8 hours. Use clindamycin for patients allergic to penicillin. Watch for diarrhea and risk of C. difficile infection.

Metronidazole — Adults: 500 mg every 8–12 hours. Often added to penicillin-based therapy for anaerobic coverage, not used alone for most odontogenic infections unless directed by a clinician.

Duration, special situations, and practical tips

Typical duration is 5–7 days for uncomplicated infections that improve quickly, and 7–14 days if there is extensive swelling, systemic signs, or delayed improvement. Always reassess after 48–72 hours; if symptoms worsen, see a dentist or physician.

If there is an abscess with a drainable collection, incision and drainage or root treatment is often more important than antibiotics alone. Antibiotics support, but don’t replace dental drainage or extraction when needed.

Allergy tips: For true penicillin allergy, use clindamycin. For mild sulfa/other allergies, discuss options with your provider. In pregnancy, amoxicillin is generally considered safer than doxycycline or fluoroquinolones, which are avoided.

Adjust doses for kidney disease—many antibiotics require lower or less frequent dosing. For children use weight-based dosing and round to available tablet or liquid strengths.

Red flags: fever over 101 F, rapid swelling of face/neck, trouble breathing or swallowing, spreading redness, or worsening after 48–72 hours of therapy. Those need urgent care or emergency evaluation.

Final tip: follow your dentist’s instructions, finish the prescribed course unless told otherwise, and return if pain or swelling does not improve. Proper drainage, not just pills, often makes the biggest difference.