Keflex is a broad spectrum oral antibiotic that kills many types of bacteria. Its generic name is cephalosporin hydrochloride. Many bacteria have protective cell walls that are needed for their survival. By interfering with the formation of bacterial cell walls, this antibiotic prevents these types of bacteria from growing and harming patients. When prescribed, a patient should take the entire prescription as directed by their dentist.

          Keflex is not harmful to an unborn baby and has no known harmful effects during pregnancy but it does pass from a woman's body into her breast milk. Nursing mothers should speak with their dentist before taking it. Women who are taking an oral contraceptive pill should be aware that this antibiotic may make the oral contraceptive less effective at preventing pregnancy. Although the risk of pregnancy is very low, women taking oral contraceptives should consider using additional methods of birth control while taking this antibiotic and additionally, for seven days after finishing the prescription.

          The most common Keflex side effect is diarrhea which occurs after the normal bacteria living in the intestines are killed off. Good bacteria are needed for normal functioning of the human intestines. About 10% of patients who are allergic to penicillin are also allergic to cephalosporins. This also means that 90% of these patients can take this antibiotic. The usual prescription for dental infections is 500 milligrams taken every six hours for seven days.

          The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. Our dentists are very concerned dental infections and the effects that infections have on their patients' health. Keflex is a common prescription written by our dentists to assist our patients in figthing oral infections. There is no reason not to treat a dental infection as soon as it is discovered. If you have a dental problem and would like to consult with Dr. Padolsky or Dr. Smith, call 404-874-7428 for an appointment.