Commonly Used Antibiotics in Dentistry
If you are required to take premedication, the patient will take the antibiotic orally one hour prior to the dental appointment. The antibiotic will work to fight germs that may enter the patient's system through the gum tissue and into the blood stream during the dental procedure.
The Journal of the California Dental Association recommends 2 grams of amoxicillin for adults or 50 milligrams per kilogram of weight for children. If the patient has an allergy to amoxicillin, their healthcare provider may prescribe other antibiotics, such as clindamycin, cephalexin or azithromycin. The benefits that antibiotics provide are they are easy to take, fast-acting and kill bacteria that may cause an infection in the body. Antibiotics are generally taken with food to prevent side effects, such as an upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea and may build a resistance to bacteria according to Medical News Today. There are risks associated with any medication your dentist or healthcare provider will prescribe the patient - if they believe the potential benefits outweigh any potential risks.
Patients should maintain a thorough oral care routine of brushing twice daily and flossing once daily and follow the recommendations of their healthcare professionals — both dental and medical — to keep their mouth and body healthy. Please consult your primary care physician, cardiologist or orthopedic surgeon to determine if you require premedication prior to your regularly scheduled twice yearly dental visits.