I have a toothache why did my dentist prescribe clindamycin?

A toothache is most likely caused from an infection within the tooth. Decay on the tooth gets worse when sugary substances are ingested because bacteria living within the cavity feed on the sugar. As the infection gets deeper and deeper inside the body of the tooth it eventually strikes the nerve which is why you have that pulsating, throbbing pain that radiates across your jaw. The infection is now in an area that air does not reach easily. The bacteria causing this particular infection is called anaerobic bacteria. (Aerobic means only in the presence of oxygen; therefore anaerobic means without oxygen.) Anaerobic bacteria only respond to certain antibiotics and one of these antibiotics is clindamycin. Clindamycin will help to get rid of some of the anaerobic bacteria that is causing the infection and therefore help with the pain. Dr. McCargar says that "It is imperative however, that a patient in this particular case follow-up with the dentist because the infection will continue to come back until the decay or the cavity is properly removed and treated."

Make Over Your Smile

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At Scottsdale Dental Arts, Dr. Jason McCargar prides himself on making sure that you are comfortable with your smile. Fixing crowding of the teeth or fixing gaps can help you to look younger. Dr. McCargar says "Whether having a full mouth makeover with veneers are moving teeth with Invisalign, your smile is custom-made to fit only you." What this means is that your smile will be unique to you and that the teeth will not look too big or too small in proportion to the features of your face. Dr. McCargar has done many smile makeovers this year using porcelain veneers. Above is a great article from Health Magazine talking about how porcelain veneers can easily correct crowding or gapping of teeth.

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Do you know someone who dips their child's pacifier in honey, sugar, or syrup? What about that parent who gives their child a baby bottle full of juice right before bed? These are examples of ways to cause Baby Bottle Tooth Decay in your child's first teeth and it is not recommended by your dentist.

Tooth decay in infants and small children is generally due to what the baby is consuming in the baby bottle. Liquids containing sugars such as milk, formula, soda, and sweetened juices swish around the child's teeth and gums feeding decay. It is often more pronounced in children still receiving a bottle because the feeding often takes longer (resulting in the sugary drink surrounding and sitting on the teeth producing decay) and then the child is often put to sleep immediately after (allowing the sugar to seep into bacteria on the teeth over night resulting in plaque and ultimately decay and cavities). If the decay and cavities are left untreated pain and infection may result leading to extraction of the baby teeth. This is extremely serious because if the baby teeth are lost too early your child may develop speech problems, crooked teeth, or damaged adult teeth.

To prevent baby bottle tooth decay Dr. McCargar recommends never allowing the child to fall asleep with a bottle containing juice, or other sweetened liquids. Dr. McCargar says the American Dental Association recommends gently massaging the baby's gums and gingival tissue using your finger wrapped in moistened gauze or a washcloth after each feeding. Brushing with a soft toothbrush and water is recommended at the first sign of a baby tooth; however, fluoride containing toothpaste should not be used until after the child's second birthday (unless your dentist advises you otherwise based on evaluation).

Looking for Whiter Teeth in Just Two Weeks?

Looking for a whiter smile, but don't want to break the bank? Try whitening with Crest White Strips, in just two weeks you can have a brighter smile! Dr. Jason McCargar at Scottsdale Dental Arts says that the active ingredient is similar to the bleaching agents that he uses at his dental office; however, the ingredient in the Crest White Strips is just lesser in strength. So, the results occur a little more slowly, but it is still a very effective means of whitening nonetheless! (Priced $25-$45 depending on size of package) Dr. McCargar also said that brushing twice daily and flossing daily can help remove plaque and lift stains also making your teeth appear whiter.