re tooth extraction

[wequ]

why have i been prescribed anti biotics after a bit of dry socket after a tooth extraction even though there is no infection as such.  They are helping with the pain though, i think

[wequ]

Thanks very much for your replies.  I'm pleased to say the antibiotics have done their job and i'm free of pain - it was awful!  I also took the whole course.
Thanks again. xx

[Weathergirl21]

It is very common for a Dentist to prescribe antibiotics after any type of dental surgery. It is used to prevent an infection as the mouth is extremely susceptible to infections.

So...this would in turn also keep down any inflammation that an infection would cause...thus keeping you out of pain where it would affect the nerves.

You can certainly call your Dentist to ask any questions but I hope that you are taking the medication....All of it...as with antibiotics...it's important to not stop taking them as it takes an entire course to be effective.

[wequ]

Sorry I didn't explain myself very clearly.  What I meant was, dry socket isn't really an infection, so why have I been prescribed anti-biotics - I didn't think antibiotics were painkillers.  I can't work out why the antibiotics are killing the pain if my socket isn't infected?

[kaylee777]

dry socket causes a  lot of pain, a lot if left untreated, it is a type of infection/irritation of a socket from smoking/ rinsing and other things after an extraction.
if they are helping what's the problem ;-)