Tooth infections don’t always require antibiotics. In many cases, they may clear up on their own. Rinsing with warm saltwater or taking over-the-counter medicines, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may help to reduce tooth pain and swelling.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that dentists avoid prescribing antibiotics for most tooth infections due to potential side effects. Dental treatments, such as drainage, deep cleaning, or a root canal (removing the infected pulp from the tooth), may sometimes be necessary.
However, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics if you are immunocompromised (have a weakened immune system) or if your tooth infection is spreading. Some of the signs that your tooth infection is getting worse may include:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Malaise (a general “ill feeling”)
- Swelling in the jaw or neck
- Intense pain or swelling that does not go away
If left untreated, a tooth infection may spread to the surrounding bones and tissues. This can lead to serious health complications, including:
- Tooth loss
- Blood infection
- Pneumonia (lung infection)
- Brain infection
- Endocarditis (infection in the heart)3
If you have a severe tooth infection, your dentist may prescribe a course of antibiotics to prevent it from spreading.1 Antibiotics may prevent tooth loss and other serious health complications.
When to See a Dentist
It’s important to seek dental treatment right away if you suspect you might have a tooth infection. Make an appointment with your dentist if you have a toothache that doesn’t go away, if your gums are red and inflamed, or if you notice a pimple-like bubble along your gum line.
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