I have a massive toothache. I just moved into a new area, so I don’t have a dentist. I do have some leftover antibiotics that I hadn’t finished. Can I just use these or do I need to speed up my dentist search?
Analiese M. – Austin, TX
Analiese,
When you’re prescribed antibiotics, you really need to take all of them or it won’t be as effective. So, you should never have leftover antibiotics. However, even if you have some, it won’t be effective in treating your toothache. The infection is liekly in the pulp of your tooth. Antibiotics can only reach where there is blood flow. It will not go into the tooth.
It’s hard to just pick a dentist and go, because you want someone you can work closely with. A smile is a very personal thing. You want a dentist who can not only keep your teeth and gums healthy, but give you the best smile possible. Someone you work well with who understands your goals for your teeth. That can’t be rushed.
However, you’re in a pickle and need to get this tooth dealt with. If I were in your shoes, I’d see an emergency dentist. They can help you deal with the tooth infection and take care of your general dental care. You can still keep searching for a dentist and get your tooth infection dealt with.
Who knows, you might even like the emergency dentist so much that you don’t have to search further. A great way to knock out two birds with one stone.
This blog is brought to you by Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Fred Arnold.