Recommended Augmentin Dosage for Tooth Infection
For adults with a tooth infection, the recommended dose of Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) is 875 mg/125 mg taken orally every 12 hours for 7-10 days. 1
Adult Dosing Options
The FDA-approved dosing for adults with infections includes:
- First-line regimen: 875 mg/125 mg tablet every 12 hours
- Alternative regimen: 500 mg/125 mg tablet every 8 hours 1
For more severe dental infections, the higher dose (875 mg/125 mg) is preferred as it provides better coverage against potential pathogens while maintaining a convenient twice-daily dosing schedule.
Pediatric Dosing
For children with tooth infections, dosing is weight-based:
- Children ≥40 kg: Use adult dosing (875 mg/125 mg every 12 hours)
- Children <40 kg: 45 mg/kg/day divided every 12 hours (based on amoxicillin component) 1
Administration Guidelines
- Take at the start of a meal to minimize gastrointestinal intolerance and enhance absorption of clavulanate 1
- Complete the full course of antibiotics (7-10 days) even if symptoms improve before completion
- Space doses evenly throughout the day to maintain consistent blood levels
Clinical Considerations
Spectrum of Coverage
Augmentin provides excellent coverage against the polymicrobial flora typically found in odontogenic infections:
- Aerobic bacteria (streptococci)
- Anaerobic bacteria
- Beta-lactamase producing organisms 2
Duration of Therapy
The standard duration for treating dental infections is 7-10 days 2. Treatment should continue until:
- Resolution of fever
- Significant reduction in swelling
- Improvement in pain
- At least 48-72 hours after clinical improvement begins
Special Populations
- Renal impairment: Dose adjustment may be required
- Pregnancy: Generally considered safe, but benefits should outweigh risks
- Penicillin allergy: Consider alternative antibiotics such as clindamycin
Monitoring and Follow-up
- Assess response within 48-72 hours after starting treatment
- If no improvement occurs within this timeframe, reevaluate diagnosis and consider:
- Surgical drainage
- Alternative antibiotics
- Possible resistant organisms
Potential Side Effects
- Diarrhea (most common)
- Nausea/vomiting
- Rash
- Candidiasis (oral or vaginal)
Clinical Evidence
Research has demonstrated that amoxicillin/clavulanate is significantly more effective than amoxicillin alone for oral-surgical interventions and dental infections 3. The combination provides better pain control and reduced swelling compared to amoxicillin monotherapy.
Important Cautions
- Do not substitute two 250 mg/125 mg tablets for one 500 mg/125 mg tablet as they contain different amounts of clavulanic acid 1
- For severe infections requiring hospitalization, IV amoxicillin-clavulanate 1.5-3.0 g every 6-8 hours may be necessary 2
- Patients with history of penicillin allergy should avoid this medication
By following these dosing guidelines and administration recommendations, Augmentin provides effective treatment for dental infections while minimizing the risk of treatment failure and antimicrobial resistance.