If you have a tooth infection, your dentist will prescribe you antibiotic treatment – most probably Clindamycin. It comes under the category of lincosamide antibiotics that treat infections caused by bacteria, including teeth infections.
Clindamycin is usually given in the oral form, but for severe teeth infections, antibiotics in intravenous form work best.
Delaying the treatment for tooth infections can make things worse. So, it’s vital to make sure you are fully aware of the recommended treatment plan.
Keep reading to learn about the effectiveness of Clindamycin for tooth infection.
What are the benefits of taking Clindamycin for a tooth infection?
The most commonly used medication to treat tooth infections is penicillin antibiotics. But, if you are allergic to penicillin antibiotics or they don’t work for you, Clindamycin can be useful.
Clindamycin can fight many types of bacteria, making it effective for tooth infections that involve a collection of bacteria.
What is the prescribed amount?
For your tooth infection, you’ll need to take a 7-day treatment course. During the treatment days, your doctor or dentist will prescribe doses 6 hours apart.
The dose may have 1-2 capsules. Be careful about following the instructions as it can impact the treatment.
It’s your choice. You can take a dose of Clindamycin before eating a meal or afterward. Taking the capsule with a glass of water can help prevent throat irritation.
How soon will it start working?
Clindamycin will start showing its effectiveness within a day or two. If your tooth infection symptoms don’t get any better after taking your medication for a few days, consult your doctor.
Can you be allergic to Clindamycin?
Allergic reactions rarely happen after taking Clindamycin. If you’re experiencing rashes, visit your doctor or dentist. You may have a drug allergy.
It’s out of common, but Clindamycin can also cause anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening reaction.
If Clindamycin doesn’t suit you, you’ll most probably experience allergic symptoms within 30 minutes following the drug intake.
- itchy hives
- swollen throat, making it difficult to breathe or swallow
- tightness in chest
- abdominal cramps
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- sense of impending doom
An anaphylactic reaction to Clindamycin will rarely occur, but you should know about the signs so you can call for a medical emergency.
Can Clindamycin cause any side effects?
Taking Clindamycin for tooth infection can cause many side effects, such as:
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- reduced appetite
A simple, bland diet while taking Clindamycin can help prevent or minimize nausea or vomiting. Spicy or rich foods can upset the stomach, so it’s better to avoid them. Probiotics can help with the growth of good gut bacteria and reduce the side effects.
If you have persistent watery diarrhea while you’re taking Clindamycin, ask your doctor before you continue with the treatment. Sometimes Clindamycin can make you more vulnerable to infection with Clostridium difficile.
C. diff occurs when the balance of your gut bacteria is disturbed. This can occur while you’re taking antibiotics. The bacteria can outgrow and cause severe infection.
Here are the symptoms of C. diff:
- frequent watery diarrhea with blood or pus
- low-grade fever
- acute abdominal pain
- sickness
- reduced appetite
Is Clindamycin safe for everyone?
Even if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, Clindamycin is safe for you. If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor if your child has diarrhea or diaper rash.
Before starting the course of Clindamycin for your tooth infection, discuss with your dentist if you had any allergic reactions to the medicine previously. Also, tell your provider if you have a digestive issue that causes diarrhea.
Clindamycin can create problems with some medications, so tell your doctor if you are taking the following:
- erythromycin
- anti-diarrheal medications
- muscle relaxants
Summing Up
Antibiotic treatment isn’t necessary for every tooth infection. Your doctor will prescribe you Clindamycin for your tooth infection if:
the infection needs antibiotics, and
you are allergic to penicillin, or the treatment isn’t working for you
The antibiotics treatment will last around seven days, and you’ll be required to take 1-2 capsules every 6 hours. To avoid recurrence of infection, make sure to complete the full course of medication.
If you’re experiencing any severe symptoms, stop taking the medication and talk to your provider. To get in touch with the dentists at Pearl Shine Dental, call 281-477-7200.