Dental Abscess Treatment Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for dental abscess treatment: what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
What to expect
Antibiotic Reminder
- •Complete the full antibiotic course to prevent resistance
- •Probiotics or yogurt can help prevent antibiotic-related stomach issues
- •If you experience a rash or difficulty breathing, stop and seek emergency care
Dental Abscess Treatment recovery, day by day
Antibiotics
- Start antibiotics immediately as prescribed
- Take the FULL course even if you feel better
- Take with food to reduce stomach upset
Drainage Site Care
- If incision and drainage was performed, some continued drainage is normal
- Rinse gently with warm salt water every 2-3 hours
- Do not press on or squeeze the area
Pain Management
- Take pain medication as prescribed
- Alternate ibuprofen and acetaminophen for best relief
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek
Infection Monitoring
- Swelling should begin decreasing within 48-72 hours on antibiotics
- Continue warm salt water rinses 3-4 times daily
- Note any changes in swelling size or pain level
Diet & Hygiene
- Soft foods, avoid chewing near the affected area
- Brush other teeth normally
- Avoid alcohol while on antibiotics
Follow-up Treatment
- The abscess drainage was urgent treatment; the underlying cause still needs to be addressed
- A root canal, extraction, or other procedure may be needed
- Attend your follow-up appointment to plan definitive treatment
Medications you may be given
Ibuprofen 600mg
Take 1 tablet 3 times daily with food
Amoxicillin 500mg
Take 1 capsule 3 times daily until finished
Always follow the exact directions your own provider gives you. This is general information, not a prescription.
When to call your provider or 911
- •Swelling spreads to eye, neck, or under the jaw
- •Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- •Fever above 101°F despite antibiotics for 48+ hours
- •Swelling is getting worse instead of better after 2-3 days of antibiotics
- •Feeling generally very unwell, confused, or extremely fatigued
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 3
Swelling decreasing
Antibiotics should be reducing the infection
- Day 4
Complete antibiotics
Finish the full antibiotic course
- Day 10
Follow-up for definitive treatment
Plan root canal, extraction, or other treatment
For clinics
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