It used to be when you got a toothache, an antibiotic was instantly prescribed by the dentist. However, a new recommendation has been released by the ADA (Antibiotics for Dental Pain and Swelling Guideline 2019). They say, in most cases, antibiotics should not be given for tooth pain. The reason being is that antibiotic resistance is on the rise.
Antibiotics target bacterial infections, not pain. While they can be life-saving when used appropriately, overuse contributes to antibiotic resistance. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), resistant infections cause over 35,000 deaths each year in the U.S. alone. Failing to address this issue could lead to even deadlier consequences, with studies suggesting antibiotic resistance could result in 10 million deaths globally by 2050 (O’Neill, 2016).
Instead of prescribing antibiotics for tooth pain, the ADA recommends treating the root cause of the issue directly.
Treat The Source
The best solution is to treat the source, which is the tooth. If there is decay, treat the decay. When a tooth needs to be extracted, extract the tooth. Then manage pain with over the counter pain medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen. In certain cases of swollen lymph nodes and fever, the source has expanded and has become systemic. In these cases, an antibiotic may be recommended depending on the patient.
Evidence
Studies have shown that antibiotics do very little to treat pain. Instead of relieving pain, they are treating bacterial infections, killing the source of infection. They are great medications. However, overuse will create resistance, which is what the ADA is trying to avoid. Another study reports, failing to address the problem of antibiotic resistance could result in 10 million deaths by 2050. Taking antibiotics only when prescribed will keep you healthier in the long run.
Side Effects
Antibiotics are powerful drugs, but they come with risks. Common side effects include mild reactions such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and yeast infections. More serious reactions can occur, such as Clostridium difficile (C. diff) infections, kidney damage, or life-threatening allergic reactions like anaphylaxis (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, 2022). Antibiotic misuse or overuse not only increases exposure to these risks but also contributes to the rise of resistant infections, which are becoming increasingly difficult to treat (World Health Organization, WHO).
What To Do For Tooth Pain?
So, we know that antibiotics will probably not be prescribed. But what can you do when you have a toothache then? First, make sure you are up to date on your regular dental cleanings and exams. At the very least, a dental examination should be done once a year. To prevent pain, it’s best to take care of any dental issues right away.
If the doctor informs you of a cavity, be sure to schedule for the restoration as soon as possible. It is not wise to put off dental treatment. By doing so you could allow the issue to get bigger and thus become more painful. Talk with the doctor about their recommendations for pain management. They will discuss your concerns and give their best recommendation.
Do not hesitate to call for an evaluation. Our doctors at the Dental Store are available for emergency appointments. We are here for you and keeping you pain-free is our top priority.
