I have a swollen pocket in my gums that hurts really bad. It has been there for about 4 or 5 weeks. It is worse at night and keeps me awake sometimes. I got a job this past Tuesday, but the dental insurance isn’t active until next month. Will an antibiotic keep any infection controlled until I can see a dentist? I want to limit my out-of-pocket expenses until this job works out for my family and me. Anne from Salem, OR
Anne
Thank you for your question. Although one of our dentists at Bayou Dental Group would need to examine the swollen pocket and take x-rays, we will explain why antibiotics are insufficient.
Can You Take an Antibiotic for a Swollen Pocket in Your Gums?
Taking an antibiotic for a swollen pocket in your gums will not get rid of the infection. The infection will worsen over time and may infect other teeth and spread to your jawbone or into your bloodstream. A dentist may prescribe an antibiotic after removing an infection, but we cannot guess about your treatment options without an exam and x-rays.
It’s best to see a dentist right away. The sooner a dentist treats the infection, the easier the process will be, and you will be less likely to experience increased pain. After relieving your pain, the dentist will take an x-ray to explain the extent of treatment you need now and how much of it, if any, can wait until your dental insurance is in effect.
Delaying treatment can lead to a dental emergency that requires you to miss work days. Your oral health is the most important thing now, so don’t delay making an appointment. Ask the dental office’s billing representative about payment plans or financing.
Monore, Louisiana, accredited Fellow of cosmetic dentistry Dr. David Finley sponsors this post. Find out why so many in the Monroe community choose Bayou Dental Group for some of the best care in Monroe.
