Absess

[JanaBanana612]

I have a friend who has a tooth absess.  He went in about two weeks and had the tooth pulled.  He was sent home and about 4 days later went in with the area so swollen he could barely breath.  The area was also draining puss.  He was in the hospital for two days trying to get the infection under control and the draining to stop.  Finally the oral surgeon went in and took out the infected tissue.  He went back today (a week later) and the area is still infected and swollen.  I'm not sure what antibiotic they put him on this time but previously he was on penicillan.  Does this sound fairly typical?  He doesn't have insurance and I am worried about the treatment he is receiving.  Its also costing him thousands to not get this treated.  Any suggestions?

[JanaBanana612]

I've been worried about a compromised immune system as well.  That maybe this a symptom of something bigger.  I hope that oral surgeon has that in the back of his head.  They tried another antibiotic so hopefully that will do the trick..........
Thanks for your help

[scottma]

Your friend's presentation is extremely rare. Abscess tends to subsides within 24 hours after the source of infection is eliminated. Post-op swelling after lower molar extraction is common.However, no more than 3 days in general.The cause of persistent swelling may be associated with infection, which may be managed by appropriate antibiotics, assuming the extraction socket is thoroughly debrided. Another possibility is underlying systemic condition which contributes to compromised immune system.Seeing a competent oral surgeon is advised.