Early- and late-stage dental infections: Choosing an antibiotic that will work

Jan. 14, 2025

Should the same antibiotic be used for an infection regardless of the time of onset? Join us in Medical History Mysteries as we discuss best practices for treating infections.

Pamela Maragliano-Muniz, DMD

Tom Viola, RPh, CCP

Two patients. Same tooth. One has a new infection, and one has an infection that’s been around for a while. Do we consider different antibiotics for these two patients? Are there antibiotics that would be more suitable for an early infection as opposed to a late-stage infection? What do the timelines look like for these infections?

Join us in Medical History Mysteries as we discuss best practices for treating infections.

Thumbnail background image credit © ZeynepKaya / E+ / Getty Images Plus

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Editor’s note: This article first appeared in Clinical Insights newsletter, a publication of the Endeavor Business Media Dental Group. Read more articles and subscribe.

About the Author

Pamela Maragliano-Muniz, DMD

Pamela Maragliano-Muniz, DMD, is the chief editor of DentistryIQ and editorial co-director of Through the Loupes. Based in Salem, Massachusetts, Dr. Maragliano-Muniz began her clinical career as a dental hygienist. She went on to attend Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, where she earned her doctorate in dental medicine. She then attended the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Dental Medicine, where she became board-certified in prosthodontics. Dr. Maragliano-Muniz owns a private practice, Salem Dental Arts, and lectures on a variety of clinical topics. You may contact her at [email protected].

About the Author

Tom Viola, RPh, CCP

With more than 30 years’ experience as a board-certified pharmacist, clinical educator, professional speaker, and published author, Tom Viola, RPh, CCP, has earned the reputation as the go-to specialist for making pharmacology practical and useful for dental teams. He is the founder of Pharmacology Declassified and is a member of the faculty of more than 10 dental professional degree programs. Viola has contributed to several professional journals and pharmacology textbooks, and currently serves as a consultant to the American Dental Association’s Council on Scientific Affairs.