My Jaw Will Not Open!

[rencike]

Hi,

For the past 5 days, I have been unable to open my jaw more than being able to get my little finger in my mouth, it is very painful and I take maximum painkillers per day, why it doesnt seem to be getting any worse, neither is it getting any better, I can drink fluids fine, it is very painful to eat, and can only eat very soft small things.

I do not have a tempature or any visable swelling on the mouth, my teeth seriosuly hurt if cold water goes on them, no ear pain, but im getting no better, any advice?

[rencike]

Hi,

Thanks very much for the reply, eases my mind slightly.

Thx

[StratRebel]

Yup.  Zithromax is a good antibiotic.  Second to amoxicillin only because its slightly more expensive.

In about 3-5 days your symptoms should greatly improve.  Make sure you finish all of the antibiotics still though.  Chances are your dentist won't be able to do anything for you tomorrow, but will once you can open wider.  Its still good to try to get in to see one so you can get an appt. for next week.

[rencike]

am I likely to be ok?

[rencike]

Hi,

Yes I got given 10 days worth, I do not know much about antibiotics but its called Zithromax 250mg.

But I am going to try to get to a dentist tomorrow, TRY being the right word.

Thx

[StratRebel]

I only have one warning.  Make sure you have enough antibiotics to last at least 7 days.  If you go less than that, you will just make resistant bacteria that will come back stronger.

Also, on a lesser note, make sure its the right type of antibiotic, and that its not expired.

[rencike]

Hi,

Thanks for the message, but I actually cant get anywhere til monday, but I have been given some antibiotics by a family member, so I will start taking them I think.

Thx

[StratRebel]

The typical cause of tinnitis is infection, usually around a back tooth. Early signs would not include fevor or swelling.  I would find a dentist or oral surgeon near you and get a quick eval. They will probably put you on a 10 day course of antibiotics which should reduce the symptoms enough that you can go back and get a full evaluation to find the cause and remove it.