If you have a severe gum infection as part of your gum disease, you may be prescribed antibiotics to help rid your body of the acute infection.

Antibiotics work by killing off bacteria, which is a major component of dental plaque, so they can reduce the amount of plaque within your mouth.

This can give your gums the chance to heal.

How Are Antibiotics Applied when Treating Gum Disease?

Dentists can prescribe antibiotics in one of several forms when attempting to treat gum disease. You may have them applied topically right onto your gums, or you may swallow oral tablets. In other cases, your dentist might prescribe an antibiotic mouthwash or could insert the medication directly into your periodontal pockets. The mechanism of delivery will really depend on your unique needs.

Are There Any Side Effects to Worry About?

Any time that you take a medication, the potential to experience a side effect exists. Your dentist or pharmacist should explain them to you, and if you are bothered by any of them and a question whether you should continue to take the medication, be sure to contact your doctor.

Don't simply stop taking a medication without first consulting with your dentist or physician. However, if you experience any emergency symptoms, such as trouble breathing, fainting, hives, or swelling of the throat, tongue, lips, and face, you should seek medical attention right away.

It is important to note that even if your dentist does prescribe antibiotics, this isn't going to cure your gum disease. While it might help to kill the bacteria, if you want to reverse your gingivitis or attempt to manage your periodontitis, you'll need to commit yourself to a good oral hygiene routine and frequent dental evaluations. With the help of your periodontist, you can improve your gum health.

Please contact our office if you have any questions about your oral health.