MANAGEMENT OF ACUTE D ENTAL CONDITIONS
If mild cellulitis is present, penicillin, amoxicillin,
and cephalexin (Keflex; all FDA pregnancy category B) are reasonable first-line
antibiotics. Erythromycin base (not erythromycin
estolate, which is associated with cholestatic
hepatitis in pregnancy) or clindamycin
(Cleocin; both FDA pregnancy category B)
can be used in the type 1 hypersensitivity
penicillin–allergic patient. For severe cellulitis,
the patient should be hospitalized and
treated with intravenous cephalosporins or
clindamycin. To manage dental pain, acetaminophen
(FDA pregnancy category B),
ibuprofen (Motrin; FDA pregnancy category
B in the first and second trimesters, category
D in the third trimester), and limited use of
oxycodone (Roxicodone; FDA pregnancy
category B in the first and second trimesters,
category D in the third trimester) are appropriate
depending on the gestational stage.