Toothache is one of the most common problems that many people experience during their lifetime. This pain can be caused by caries, gingivitis, oral infections or even pressure caused by orthodontics; Therefore, visiting a dentist to check the root cause of toothache is always the best option. After diagnosing the cause of the toothache, the dentist considers the appropriate treatment to relieve it. One of the drugs that doctors prescribe to patients to control oral infections and reduce gum and tooth inflammation is Metronidazole tablets. If you want to get information about metronidazole tablets and its uses, stay with us until the end of the article. **What is metronidazole?** Metronidazole is a strong antibiotic from the group of nitroimidazoles, which is widely used to treat bacterial and parasitic infections. This drug is particularly effective against anaerobic bacteria, which thrive in low-oxygen environments such as infected gums. For this reason, it is widely used in the treatment of oral and dental infections, abscesses and periodontal (gum) diseases. **Read more" Click on the given link to familiarize yourself with specialized orthodontic services and view the price list of dental orthodontics in Mashhad.** **The effect of metronidazole on toothache** Metronidazole tablet itself is not designed to immediately relieve tooth *pain*, but its main purpose is to treat the **root bacterial infections** that are causing the pain. When there is inflammation and infection of the gum or tooth root, taking this medicine can reduce the pain over time. Usually, this drug is prescribed together with other antibiotics such as amoxicillin to create a more antibacterial effect. ### **When is metronidazole prescribed?** - **Dental abscess:** Accumulation of pus caused by infection around the root or gum. - Gum diseases (periodontitis): inflammation and chronic infection of the gums. - **Infection after oral surgery:** such as wisdom tooth extraction. - **Bad breath caused by bacterial infection:** The origin of which is the growth of anaerobic bacteria. **Read more" Getting to know the benefits and limitations of using naproxen tablets for toothache** **How to take metronidazole tablets** The dosage of this medicine varies depending on the type of infection and the patient's condition, but usually: - **Adults:** 250 to 500 mg every 8 hours. - The duration of use is usually between 5 and 7 days. The important thing is that the drug should be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor, and stopping it arbitrarily can lead to the return of the infection or bacterial resistance. Metronidazole Side Effects Like any other drug, metronidazole can have side effects: - Nausea, vomiting or stomach pain - Headache and dizziness - Metallic taste in the mouth - Change in color of urine - Allergic reactions (rare) Long-term use or high doses of this drug can increase the risk of damage to the liver and nervous system. Therefore, it should be taken under the supervision of a doctor. **Read more" What are the harmful drugs for teeth?** ### **drug interaction of metronidazole** - **Alcohol:** Simultaneous use of metronidazole and alcohol can cause severe nausea, vomiting and headache. - **Blood thinners (warfarin):** The risk of bleeding increases. - **Some antiepileptic drugs:** may change the effect of the drug. ### **Metronidazole and orthodontics** Patients undergoing orthodontic treatment may experience gingivitis due to plaque accumulation or health problems. In this situation, an orthodontist in Mashhad or other cities may prescribe metronidazole to control the infection. Of course, the use of this medicine should be accompanied by strict oral hygiene and regular visits to the orthodontic clinic. **Read more" Click on the given link to get familiar with orthodontic pain reduction methods.** ### **Alternatives of metronidazole in toothache** If the patient is allergic to metronidazole or cannot take it, other antibiotics such as amoxicillin, clindamycin or azithromycin may be prescribed by the doctor. Also, for immediate pain relief, pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are prescribed, which have an anti-inflammatory or analgesic role but do not treat the infection. Important points when taking metronidazole 1. The medicine must be taken according to the doctor's prescription. 2. Avoid simultaneous use of alcohol with metronidazole. 3. Complete the course of treatment even if symptoms improve. 4. If you experience severe symptoms such as an allergic reaction, see a doctor immediately. 5. It is necessary to use a toothbrush, dental floss and mouthwash along with taking medicine. #### **final word** Metronidazole tablet is one of the effective antibiotics in the treatment of oral and dental infections, which is mostly used for bacterial and gum infections. This medicine is not suitable for immediate toothache relief, but it helps to reduce the pain gradually by controlling the infection. Consultation with a dentist or orthodontic specialist in Mashhad can provide the best guidance regarding the correct and safe use of this medicine. Observing oral hygiene, completing the course of treatment and avoiding self-administration of drugs are the main keys in controlling infection and preventing further damage. ###