Can antibiotics alone treat severe dental infections?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been taking antibiotics for a month for a severe dental infection, and it has helped the pain some. However, I am still having pain on the right side of my face, my ear still hurts, my head still hurts right by the eyeball, and the roof of my mouth is still swollen, making it hard to swallow. I cannot chew, and I am all out of pain medications from the hospital. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

It seems there is severe decay in two of your teeth, leaving only the root stumps. While antibiotics can help manage the infection temporarily, they are not a definitive solution for a dental infection. Painkillers can alleviate discomfort, but they would not address the underlying issue either.

For a local dental infection, the only effective treatment is to completely remove the root stumps through an extraction performed by your dentist or oral surgeon. Leaving the decayed teeth untreated can lead to serious complications, including the spread of infection through the lymphatic system and bacterial infiltration to other areas of the body.

I strongly recommend scheduling the extraction (tooth removal) as soon as possible to prevent further problems.

I hope this helps.

Revert with the answer to assist further.

Thank you and take care.