I need some advice. I went to the dentist for a tooth infection. I tend to avoid the dentist at all costs but I was in too much pain. He provided me with some antibiotics. While I took those and got better, over the last week it seems to have come back and now my cheek near that tooth is beginning to swell. Do you have any advice as to what I should do next? The last appointment was quite painful so I’m not looking forward to going back.
Millie
Dear Millie,
Something is not right here. I am hoping you did not hear the dentist tell you that you would need a follow-up appointment. If that isn’t the case, then he has a profound lack of understanding about how dental infections work.
An antibiotic does not heal a tooth infection. It is simply designed to get an infection under control while you wait for your procedure. The only way to truly solve an infected tooth is for the dentist to get in there and physically remove the infected pulp. There are two ways to do this. The first is with a root canal treatment. The second is with a tooth extraction. Without that the infection will return as soon as the antibiotics run out.
This is a serious situation for you. A tooth infection is considered a dental emergency. This is because of how close your teeth are to your heart, lungs, and brain. If it spreads to those, a simple dental infection can turn life-threatening.
Dealing with Dental Anxiety During Dental Emergencies
I realize you are nervous about the dentist, especially after your last painful appointment. The good news is I have a way for you to get the care you need while being completely relaxed and pain-free. When you call to get a new appointment, call a dentist who advertises on their website as a sedation dentist.
When you call, be certain to let them know what is going on with your tooth and how the side of your cheek is swelling. This way they can either get you in right away or provide you with another antibiotic while they get you an appointment.
This blog is brought to you by San Antonion Dentist Dr. Imam.
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