A 38-year-old member asked:
After starting antibiotics for an abscessed tooth how long before you see results?
2 doctor answers • 8 doctors weighed in

Dr. Sandra Eleczkoanswered
Dentistry 37 years experience
24 hours: Typically it takes at least 24 hours before an antibiotic takes effect, but an antibiotic alone will not cure an abscessed tooth you need to have the tooth treated by a dentist.
4.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Matthew Hydeanswered
Dentistry 42 years experience
24 hours plus: This can vary depending on the cause of the abcess. However if you took the antibiotics on your without seeing a dentist first you should see one immediately because you may make the situation worse (more difficult diagnosis of problem or creation of a super infection of the wrong antibiotic for the wrong amount of time).
4.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated May 16, 2018
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $39!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.