What do antibiotics do after a root canal treatment?

Prevention: As clean as it can be, root canal procedures can push bacterial matter into the surrounding tissues and leave a potential for post procedural infection that can compromise the success of the root canal. Antibiotic to reduce that risk.

Stop the infection: A root canal is performed because there is bacteria in the root of the tooth. When the root canal is performed some of that bacteria can enter the blood stream. The antibiotic is an extra precaution to eliminate that bacteria and ensure the body can take of bacteria around the tooth.

Treats the infection: The antibiotics usually will treat any infection present or prevent any infection.