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Tooth Decay
- Topic Overview
-
Health Tools
- Cause
- Symptoms
- What Happens
- What Increases Your Risk
- When To Call a Doctor
- Exams and Tests
- Treatment Overview
- Prevention
- Home Treatment
- Medications
- Surgery
- Other Treatment
- Other Places To Get Help
- Related Information
- References
- Credits
Your dentist may prescribe chlorhexidine gluconate (Peridex, Periogard), a prescription mouthwash, to reduce the bacteria that cause tooth decay. He or she may also recommend or prescribe other types of fluoride treatment, such as fluoride mouthwash, toothpaste, or supplements.
Over-the-counter medicine can also relieve pain and swelling in your face and jaw caused by tooth decay. These include acetaminophen, such as Tylenol; ibuprofen, such as Advil or Motrin; and aspirin. Do not give aspirin to anyone younger than 20 because of the risk of Reye syndrome.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: July 17, 2009 |
| Medical Review: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Steven K. Patterson, BS, DDS, MPH - Dentistry | |
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