Clindamycin antibiotic side effects

Hello, I had a root canel done on my lower right widom tooth about a year ago.  The dentist prescribed Clindamycin because of an infection that I have in the tooth.  I have had at least two infections since the rootcanel.  This is the third and now he tells me it needs to come out.  I have decided to have the tooth taken out but have a question.  I have had a reaction to the Clindamycin.  At least that's what the doctors tell me caused my itching and rash.  I have a red rash on my hand and whenever I scratch, there is a breakout of whelps/bumps.  Also my lip has swollen. I also feel like I have indigestion. Is this the same as penacillin?  I have used it and never had a reaction before.  Should I request this one instead of the Clindamycin?  Do you think the Clindamycin could have caused this reaction?  

[scottma]

Your descriptions are consistent with classical drug allergy, which is known as angioedema.There are alternative antibiotics to penicillin and clindamycin.