Is Keflex Good For Tooth Infection

Hypersensitivity Reactions And Anaphylaxis

Keflex (Cefalexin) Tablets/Suspension

Cephalexin and Amoxicillin are both beta-lactam antibiotics and related to penicillins. Penicillin allergies are among the most common antibiotic allergies, affecting up to 10% of the population. If a patient reports an allergy to penicillins, caution should be used with amoxicillin and cephalexin as well. While most sensitivity, or allergic, reactions are mild and limited to a mild skin rash, there are some who can experience a severe anaphylactic response to beta-lactam antibiotics. A severe reaction would include swelling of the lips, tongue and throat, and difficulty breathing or swallowing. If you begin to experience any of these symptoms after taking cephalexin or amoxicillin, you should seek medical attention immediately.

What Is The Best Antibiotic For A Toothache

A toothache caused by infection can be treated in various ways depending on the severity, location, and general health of the patient. In cases of severe infections that cant be treated by root canal or tooth extraction alone, your dentist may prescribe an antibioticusually amoxicillin, or metronidazole in the case of a penicillin allergy.

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Dentist Group Says Antibiotics Not Needed For Most Toothaches

By Lisa Rapaport

4 Min Read

– In most cases, adults dont need to take antibiotics for a toothache, according to new guidelines from the American Dental Association .

Even though patients with toothaches are often prescribed antibiotics to help ease symptoms and prevent worsening of the problem, healthy adults should generally have dental treatment instead of antibiotics, according to the ADA guidance published in the Journal of the American Dental Association.

Antibiotics should not be used until an infection progresses enough that it can no longer be treated with only dental treatment like a nonsurgical root canal, said Peter Lockhart, chair of the ADA expert panel that developed the guidelines and a research professor at Carolinas Medical Center – Atrium Health in Charlotte, North Carolina. Signs and symptoms of this progression include fever, swollen lymph nodes, facial swelling and extreme tiredness.

These recommendations apply to healthy adults, and are not intended to stop antibiotic use altogether, according to the ADA guidelines. The intent is to minimize overuse and the rise of more antibiotic-resistant infections by limiting antibiotic use to cases when these drugs are absolutely necessary.

Dental pain and swelling are the most common reason that patients go to the emergency room or doctors office for oral health problems, according to the ADA. Patients may have occasional sharp pain and a fever, or they might experience constant dull or severe pain.

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Coverage And Cost Comparison Of Cephalexin Vs Amoxicillin

Cephalexin is a prescription medication that is covered by both commercial and Medicare drug insurance plans. A typical prescription for cephalexin would be written for 28 capsules of the 500mg strength. The average cash price for this prescription without insurance can be close to $50 or higher. With a coupon from SingleCare, you can get it for less than $9.

Amoxicillin is a prescription medication which is also covered by both commercial and Medicare drug insurance plans. The cash price for a prescription written for 21 capsules of the 500mg strength of amoxicillin is over $20, but with a coupon from SingleCare, you can get this prescription starting around $5.

Cephalexin vs. amoxicillin efficacy

Determining Infection Source And Appropriate Course Of Treatment

Endodontic infections are polymicrobial and are made up of predominantly anaerobic bacteria and some facultative bacteria. A tooth with an infected nonvital pulp is a reservoir of infection that is isolated from the patients immune response and will eventually produce a periradicular inflammatory response. When the microbes invade the periradicular tissues, abscess and cellulitis may develop. The severity of this infection is dependent on the pathogenicity of the microbes and the resistance of the host. This response may not only give rise to an immunopathogenic and protective response but may also be destructive to the surrounding tissues and contribute to the adverse signs and symptoms.

The spread of infection and the associated inflammatory response will continue until the source of infection is removed. Patient evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of the source of infection are of utmost importance.

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What Other Information Should I Know

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your response to cephalexin.

Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking cephalexin.

If you are diabetic and test your urine for sugar, use Clinistix or TesTape to test your urine while taking this medication.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Your prescription is probably not refillable.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

Is Cephalexin Good For Tooth Infection

Yes, cephalexin is good for tooth infections like tooth abscesses and gum infections. It quickly works against infection and gives relief from severe pain. It will kill all bacteria in the mouth as it starts working even after one hour. But, one should not take this medicine without the consultation of a doctor.

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Keeping The Infections At Bay

Tooth infections are horrible, and people should get them treated as soon as possible.

Delaying or neglecting dental treatment can result in tooth infection spreading to areas around the mouth and even to other parts of the body.

The most common methods of treating tooth abscesses are root canal treatment, apicoectomy, sepsis treatment, and antibiotics.

If you suspect you have a dental infection, seek dental treatment immediately to prevent the abscess from spreading.

Who Shouldnt Take Cephalexin

Cephalexin

Cephalexin is considered safe during pregnancy, but a provider may only prescribe it when absolutely necessary. Cephalexin is also considered safe for use while breastfeeding.

Certain populations should not take cephalexin due to potential complications or drug interactions.

Let your healthcare provider know if you have any of the below conditions:

Inflammation in the large intestine
Kidney disease with decreased kidney function
History of Clostridium difficile infection

Dont take cephalexin if youre allergic to it or to other, similar antibiotics, known as cephalosporins.

Also, let your doctor know if you take the drugs metformin or probenecid, which can negatively interact with cephalexin.

If you think youre experiencing an allergic reaction to cephalexin, go to the emergency room or call 911.

And if you have unwanted or severe side effects that are not life threatening, dont hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider or a K provider, who can help treat them or find a new medication to treat your tooth infection.

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Antibiotic Prophylaxis For Dental Work

Your dentist may prescribe preventative antibiotics for certain dental services or before the treatment of your dental infection this is called antibiotic prophylaxis.

During certain dental treatments, the bacteria that reside in your mouth may enter the bloodstream, and prophylactic antibiotics can prevent infection.

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Dosage For Otitis Media

Adult dosage

14 grams per day taken in divided doses. The usual dose is 250 mg taken every 6 hours, or a dose of 500 mg every 12 hours may be given. If you have a severe infection, your doctor may give you a larger dose.

Child dosage

75100 mg/kg of body weight per day given in equally divided doses every 6 hours.

Child dosage

This medication hasnt been studied in children younger than 1 year for this condition.

Senior dosage

The kidneys of older adults may not work as well as they used to. This can cause your body to process drugs more slowly. As a result, more of a drug stays in your body for a longer time. This raises your risk of side effects. Your doctor may start you on a lowered dose or a different dosing schedule. This can help keep levels of this drug from building up too much in your body.

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Drug Interactions Of Cephalexin Vs Amoxicillin

Cephalexin may increase the serum concentrations of the common antidiabetic agent metformin. Most courses of cephalexin are a short duration, so the drugs may be used concurrently as long as the patient is monitored.

Amoxicillin may interfere with the serum concentrations of important immunosuppressants. Serum concentrations of methotrexate have been shown to be increased with concurrent use with amoxicillin, while mycophenolate concentrations may be decreased. These immunosuppressant drugs are used in patients with serious conditions, and therefore patients who require the use of amoxicillin while on these drugs should be monitored closely.

Probenecid, when given with cephalexin or amoxicillin, may increase the serum concentrations of either antibiotic. While the use of both at the same time is not contraindicated, patients should be monitored.

Drug

Is Keflex A Good Antibiotic For Extracted Tooth Infections

Keflex Pediatrico Suspension 125 Mg Dosis

Submitted:Category:

Hello,

Thanks for your question and welcome to Just Answer. Let me review the question and get back to you.

Dr Behere

Keflex is not really the antibiotic of choice for infections. Amoxicillin, Augmentin, Clindamycin and Metronidazole are the preferred ones.

Does this answer your question?

Dr Behere

No I wouldn’t really recommend that.

Yes I remember talking about Keflex to someone. I would try Clindamycin or Metronidazole.

Stop taking? I didn’t understand. And yes there are many services/apps, but I’m not allowed to specifically recommend any. You could simply go to the ER or Urgent Care for a prescription.

You are welcome! Thanks for using Just Answer.

The next time you have a dental question, you can directly post it for me by going to and also begin the question with FOR DR BEHERE ONLY.

Take care and stay safe!

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Loss Of Infected Tooth

Leaving an abscessed tooth without treatment can cause it to become weak, and you will eventually lose it. But if a tooth infection is treated early, you can get a root canal procedure and a crown to save it.

In severe cases, tooth replacements using dental implants are going to be necessary if you wish to restore normal oral function.

However, an implant can only be supported once the infection has been eliminated from the surrounding area.

Warnings Of Cephalexin And Amoxicillin

Patients with a penicillin allergy should not take amoxicillin. There is evidence to suggest that patients with a penicillin allergy may also have a cross-sensitivity to cephalosporins, including cephalexin. Caution should be used when prescribing cephalexin in penicillin-allergic patients with no prior use of cephalosporins.

Pseudomembranous colitis is a rare but serious condition. It involves the swelling and inflammation of the colon due to an overgrowth of clostridium difficile. Pseudomembranous colitis can occur with a variety of antibiotics, including cephalexin and amoxicillin.

Cephalexin and amoxicillin are renally excreted. Patients with decreased or impaired renal function must have their doses adjusted accordingly.

Cephalexin is considered pregnancy category B, meaning that animal studies have not shown any teratogenic effects. It is considered generally safe in pregnancy. Cephalexin crosses into breast milk but is generally considered safe while breastfeeding.

Amoxicillin is also considered pregnancy category B. It is considered generally safe in pregnancy. Amoxicillin crosses into breast milk but is also considered safe while breastfeeding.

When Are Antibiotics Used For A Tooth Infection

Tooth infections dont always require antibiotics. In many cases, they may clear up on their own. Rinsing with warm saltwater or taking over-the-counter medicines, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs , may help to reduce tooth pain and swelling.

The American Dental Association recommends that dentists avoid prescribing antibiotics for most tooth infections due to potential side effects. Dental treatments, such as drainage, deep cleaning, or a root canal , may sometimes be necessary.

However, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics if you are immunocompromised or if your tooth infection is spreading. Some of the signs that your tooth infection is getting worse may include:

Swelling in the jaw or neck
Intense pain or swelling that does not go away

If left untreated, a tooth infection may spread to the surrounding bones and tissues. This can lead to serious health complications, including:

Brain infection

If you have a severe tooth infection, your dentist may prescribe a course of antibiotics to prevent it from spreading. Antibiotics may prevent tooth loss and other serious health complications.

Overview Of Cephalexin For Canines And Felines

Keflex

Cephalexin, also known by the brand names KeflexÂ® and RilexineÂ®, is an antibiotic used for dogs and cats. Cephalexin belongs to the cephalosporin class of drugs and is related to the penicillin drugs in how it kills bacteria. Cephalosporins have a much broader range of activity against bacteria than penicillins. Cephalexin is one of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics to dogs and cats.
Cephalexin will prevent the bacteria from forming an adequate and protective cell wall. This results in instability and subsequent death of the bacteria.
Cephalexin is a prescription drug and can only be obtained from a veterinarian or by prescription from a veterinarian.
This drug is not approved for use in animals by the Food and Drug Administration but it is prescribed legally by veterinarians as an extra-label drug.

Which Are The Best Antibiotic For Tooth Infection:

What antibiotic is used for tooth infection?

To reach a conclusion we first need to understand a few things.

Firstly, the severity of a tooth infections depends on the individual, and it needs to be addressed by your dentist. When you go for the check-up, make sure that you get to know about the type of abscess/infection you are suffering from. Which antibiotic to use depends upon the final diagnosis. It is critical to analyze which antibiotic will suit a particular infection. Also, misuse of antibiotics can put a patient to risk. Drug resistance by a particular bacteria is a major drawback. Therefore, analyzing the diagnosis and prescribing the antibiotic accordingly is the first step.

Some indications for the dosage of different antibiotics are as follows:

Warnings For Certain Groups

For people with kidney problems: If you have kidney problems or a history of kidney disease, you may not be able to clear this drug from your body. This may increase the levels of this drug in your body and cause more side effects. Your doctor may adjust your dose if you have kidney disease. Talk with your doctor about whether this drug is safe for you.

For pregnant people: Studies of the drug in pregnant animals have not shown a risk to the fetus. There arent enough studies on pregnant people to show the drug poses a risk to the fetus. You may still want to talk with your doctor if youre pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

For people who are nursing: Cephalexin passes into breast milk and may cause side effects in a child who is breastfed. Talk with your doctor if you are nursing your child. You may need to decide whether to stop nursing or stop taking this medication.

For seniors: The kidneys of older adults may not work as well as they used to. This can cause your body to process drugs more slowly. As a result, more of the drug stays in your body for a longer time. This raises your risk of side effects.

For children: This drug hasnt been studied in children younger than 1 year of age with respiratory tract, middle ear, skin and skin structure, bone, and urinary tract infections.

how severe your condition is
other medical conditions you have
how you react to the first dose

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Why Arent Antibiotics Working

Oral infections are also called abscesses. The small pocketshold pus and dead tissue, which can appear as a pimple-like bump on the gum,usually near the root of a tooth. Often, they are the result of an untreatedcavity, failing dental work, trauma, or a cracked tooth.

If the tooth isnt treated, it can cause the bacteria toenter the roots. The bacteria will then feed on your nerve tissues and bloodvessels. This allows them to spread and multiply, wreaking havoc in your mouth.

At this point, antibiotics arent enough to solve theproblem because they wont treat the underlying cause of the infection, like acavity. To prevent the issues from worsening, youll need a root canal.

Get To The Root Of It

If you have a fever, an infection may have spread beyond its original source and an antibiotic can help. If you have an infection that hasnt spread, it might be treatable at the original source. For example, a contained toothache probably wont require antibiotics, but you might need dental treatment, such as a root canal, depending on the severity of the infection.

Cephalexin For Tooth Infection: Benefits & Side Effects

Any toothache can be painful, but a tooth abscess, or infected tooth, is both painful and potentially risky.

Tooth infections commonly occur due to dental problems like cavities or gum disease. If left untreated, an abscessed tooth can result in more serious, even life-threatening health problems, including bacteria spreading to the face, bones, or bloodstream.

To treat a tooth infection, a dentist or other healthcare provider may prescribe an antibiotic medication.

Antibiotics work by slowing or stopping the growth of bacteria, which in turn resolves the infection and the accompanying symptoms.

Cephalexin, also called Daxbia or Keflex, is one antibiotic for tooth infections.

While cephalexin can be effective in treating some dental infections, its not without side effects and risks.

If your healthcare provider prescribes any antibiotic, including cephalexin, its important to follow their instructions throughout the treatment course.

And of course, if your infection isnt resolving or your symptoms get worse, dont hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider, dentist, or a K provider, who can help you figure out whats going on.

In this article, Ill cover the benefits of taking cephalexin for a tooth infection, dose information for the drug, and how long it takes to work.