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How Can Tooth Infection And Swelling In The Gum Be Treated?

I currently have either an abscessed tooth or gum infection on an upper molar. I have taken 500 mg of Penamox (which I believe is Amoxicillin) 3 times per day for two days, and 400 mg of Motrin twice per day for swelling and pain. Can I switch to Clindamycin for two more days until I can get to a dentist? If the antibiotic works, how long before I see signs of improvement?
Thank you,
Mike
posted on Wed, 4 Apr 2018
Twitter Mon, 16 Apr 2018 Answered on
Twitter Wed, 25 Apr 2018 Last reviewed on
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Dentist,  's  Response
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service.
I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

Amoxicillin is suitable for tooth infection and as you have taken it for just 2 days, you need not to switch to clindamycin and continue taking Amoxiciilin for atleast 5 days for appropriate effect.

You should also consult an Oral Physician and get evaluated and a clinical examination and x-ray can be done to find the exact cause.

If there is tooth abscess then root canal treatment of tooth or extraction can be done for permanent resolution. If it is due to gum infection then localised cleaning and antibiotics like Metronidazole can help.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Honey Arora
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How Can Tooth Infection And Swelling In The Gum Be Treated?

Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. Amoxicillin is suitable for tooth infection and as you have taken it for just 2 days, you need not to switch to clindamycin and continue taking Amoxiciilin for atleast 5 days for appropriate effect. You should also consult an Oral Physician and get evaluated and a clinical examination and x-ray can be done to find the exact cause. If there is tooth abscess then root canal treatment of tooth or extraction can be done for permanent resolution. If it is due to gum infection then localised cleaning and antibiotics like Metronidazole can help. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Honey Arora