AboutGary Backlund, DMD, MSD Expertise I am an Endodontist ( root canal specialist ) and can answer questions about root canals and their treatment. I cannot diagnose or treat online, but can answer general questions. I have been a specialist for 25 years and am Past President of the Washington State Association of Endodontists.
Experience 25 years practicing as a specialist
Organizations American Association of Endodonists, Past President Washington State Association of Endodontists.
I'm wondering when a patient has an infection on a bone, and needs a root canal, like right after the root canal procedure, does every patient that has an infection on the bone need some sort of antibiotic to help fight the infection? Or can the root canal be done with, and the infection can go away on its own without the need of antibiotics?
And is amoxcillin a good type of antibiotic to fight these infections on the bone? Is it strong enough to fight the infection?
Answer Hi Lauren,
We do not routinely prescribe antibiotics after root canal treatment. Once the source of the problem is removed, the body can heal very well on it's own. We only use antibiotics to treat active infections that cause pain & swelling.
Amoxicillin is usually our frist choice for dental infections. It works great in the majority of cases.
