“Should I take antibiotics after a root canal?”

No. Not necessarily unless indicated.

It depends. If there is already active infection with pus and drainage or swelling in the mouth or on the face, antibiotics are usually required. If none of the above are true, then it is usually safe to not use them. Sometimes root canal treatment is necessary to prevent the infection from developing on an already compromised tooth. You could also need a root canal in order to place a post in the root to help secure a crown. Those cases wouldn't require antibiotics. But, of course, check with the dentist who's doing the root canal. Dr. Conrad

You only need antibiotics if your root was infected. If the root was not infected, you don't need antibiotics.

In general, antibiotics are not required after a root canal procedure. The root canal treatment itself is aimed at eliminating the infection from the affected tooth and preventing any further infection. The procedure entails the removal of infected pulp tissue, disinfecting the canals, and then sealing them to prevent future bacterial invasion. However, there are certain situations where the use of antibiotics post-procedure may be warranted: 1. Severity of Infection: In cases where there is a severe infection or abscess present, antibiotics may be prescribed to help eliminate the infection and prevent it from spreading. 2. Systemic Infection Signs: If signs of systemic infection such as fever or swollen lymph nodes are present, antibiotics may be necessary to manage the infection. 3. Individual Health Conditions: For individuals with certain pre-existing health conditions or compromised immune systems, antibiotics may be prescribed as a preventive measure to avoid potential complications. 4. Persistent Infections: In instances where the infection persists even after the root canal treatment, antibiotics may be deemed necessary. It's imperative to follow the guidelines and instructions provided by your endodontist or healthcare provider regarding post-operative care. They will evaluate your particular situation and advise on whether or not antibiotics are necessary following your root canal procedure. Get Outlook for iOS<https://aka.ms/o0ukef>