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Avatar universal

Possible tooth infection

I had a root canal in one of my lower molars some years ago, and recently the gum around it became inflamed. I went for my normal check-up and the dentist said that it was infected and prescribed antibiotics (I finished the prescribed course). She also told me to brush three times a day. I went back the next week, as the filling fell out of it, and she said that it was looking better, re-filled the tooth and recommended Corsodyl for a couple of weeks. I followed her advice, and continued with the Corsodyl, and things did seem to improve, but as soon as I stopped using it, the gum started to swell again. I noticed on the bottle that a month's course was recommended for gum disease, so thought that maybe I hadn't used it for long enough to completely knock the infection out. I have now been using it for a further three weeks, and things always seem okay in the morning, but the gum swells up again by evening. There is also a dull ache at times. None of these are pretty dramatic symptoms - not even bothersome if I am honest, but I am just worried that there may be an infection that needs dealing with, and I am not feeling anything because the tooth has had a root canal. Is that possible, or am I over-worrying? There is no real pain, just this slightly inflamed gum in the evening - although I am worried that when I stop using the mouthwash, things will worsen. She also x-rayed the tooth, to check that it had had a root canal - so, wouldn't anything really problematic show up on that?

I also would prefer not to take more antibiotics, as I am breastfeeding and had to take them after my baby was born, so she has already been exposed to two doses!
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Avatar universal
Hi Gellia,

Just wanted to let you know that you were right! The problem is in the gum, rather than the root. There are two areas where there is some missing bone, and the infection has set in there. I have to brush, brush and brush some more, keep using the corsodyl and use a syringe to get it right into the gum. I can't have antibiotics, as I have had two courses in the last few months, so if things don't clear up in the next few weeks, I will have to have the tooth extracted.

Wish me luck!

Thanks again,
Melissa
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I think you're right on by getting in to see your dentist.

Also, try using toothpaste for sensitive teeth if there is a pocket there.  It can help tremendously.

GOOD LUCK and I hope you get it resolved to your satisfaction.

Best to you,
Gellia
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Hi,

Thanks for your comment - I am pretty meticulous about flossing, as a rule. Since this started I have been even more careful about keeping my teeth as clean as possible, and while this has helped, it hasn't completely got rid of the problem. After I posted here, a white lump appeared on the gum, which (bit grim this) leaked white fluid when I pushed it, so I decided it was best to stop messing around and make an appointment with my dentist. I am going in tomorrow, so will let you know what she says!

Thanks again!

Melissa
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Hi,
Sounds as though there might be a dental pocket there.  Plaque gets down between the tooth and the gum and causes inflammation. The plaque needs to be removed daily.  

Do you floss correctly?  If not, that is probably the single most important thing you can do to help get that plaque out from the pocket area.

Try flossing at least once a day.  I think it will help.  Everything you mention sounds like plaque getting down into a pocket.  It's VERY irritating to the gum and will inflame it within hours.  That may be why it feels better right after you brush.

GOOD LUCK and let us know if that helps.

My best to you,
Gellia
Helpful - 0
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