Antibiotic Use

In which cases are antibiotics used in dentistry?

In dentistry, antibiotics are used prophylactically as a precaution if there is a widespread infection affecting the systemic condition of the patient, if there is an area open to infection in any part of the body due to a previous illness or after surgery.

Should antibiotics be used for every toothache?

Most of the pain in the teeth is caused by edema in the area rather than infection. Edema is reduced with the intervention of a dentist, and if there is an infection, it is treated. Almost all toothaches are conditions that DO NOT REQUIRE antibiotics. Painkillers and anti-edema (anti-inflammatory) drugs can be prescribed if the physician deems it necessary.

Antibiotics used in toothache without consulting a doctor will not cure the patient, but will also reduce the effectiveness of antibiotics to be used in the future by creating resistance in existing bacteria in the body.

Are there other alternatives to the use of antibiotics?

Antibiotics are still the most powerful drugs available to us in infections that are common and affect the systemic health of the patient. However, all of the regional dental-gingival infections that occur apart from these can be cured with the intervention of a dentist. All kinds of drugs used without consulting a doctor do not cure the disease, and sometimes they can make the current situation worse. Instead of using antibiotics, your doctor can offer you suggestions to ensure your oral hygiene, solve oral problems before the disease begins, or relieve your current pain with simple interventions.

Serifali Hospitadent

Chief Physician Dt. Zekeriya Alp YILDIRAN