Question about a bad toothache/infected tooth?!


Question: Question about a bad toothache/infected tooth?
I finally went into the dentist today for a badly infected tooth, i mean it's bad it's got a big gaping hole it hurts like hell (the only thing that gives me any relief is putting ice or cold water on the infected tooth), I've elected to get a root canal but until I do the dentist gave me penicillin for an antibiotic, and vicodin for the pain, i've taken both pills about 3 times today and I notice no difference the pain is still as strong as ever, my question is and I'm guessing it depends on the person and how bad the infection is, how long does it take penicillin and vicodin to work on a toothache?

Answers:

Best Answer - Chosen by Voters

You probably will start noticing a difference after another day.



If the Vicodin's not working you can call the dentist and see if he or she can give you something else. Some people just don't respond to some painkillers. The penicillin should be knocking down the infection now, which might help with the pain if the body can start absorbing the products of infection, but it might not be enough to notice if the surrounding tissue is inflamed. Good luck with the root canal. Ow.

Used to work for a dentist.



The infection can cause swelling so the pressue from the swelling can be causing some pain. I would say give it another day and you should be feeling better. There is still going to be pain but I think it will be quite decreased...also dont stop taking the antibodtic...infected teeth can damage your heart if not tended to correctly.

Wishing you the best! Toothaches just plain suck no matter how bad they hurt!



hi Tony,

to answer your question.

1. How bad is the infection?
I'm not a dentist, but we have a Dentist on our website that can help you with this question.

2. How long does it take the meds to work?
Penicillin will work in approximate 12 hours. Vicodin should work within 1 hr. If the pain is not going away, you need to either 1) need more antibiotics or switch to stronger antibiotic and/or 2) upgrade to a stronger pain killer such as Norco.

I hope I have answered your questions. If not, please let me know. Keep me posted on your progress.

I'm not always on Yahoo, if you have any questions, you can find me and other Doctors, Pharmacists and Dentists volunteering our time to answer your specific questions on our website:

www.AskMyPharmacists.com

www.AskMyPharmacists.com




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