I had a heat sensitive crown that had a root canal. The pain increased with time. Pain was there almost all the time. I went to a dentist and he said it looked like an infection in the gum around the crown, took an x-ray which showed nothing. There were deep pockets due to a previous infection causing a deep area between #14 and the last molar, (which has also got a crown), but no root canal. The dentist said I more than likely have an infection and need a deep cleaning and antibiotics put into the area to heal it. I took the time to read all the issues posted here regarding similar issues. The conclusion was that most seem to be infections of some sort, along with the advice to have a endodontist check for various problems.
I have decided to treat myself and started taking Cipro 500mg tabs. I have taken them for approximately 5 nights now and alternate 1 tab and then 2 tabs. I have had relief and only have slight pain now. I have made it a point to use my waterpik every night since I started the antibiotics with special attention to this area.
My questions are...how long should I continue the antibiotics?, this being my sixth night and still having slight pain....and, once it is cleared up, should I still go in for a deep cleaning or only a cleaning? Seems like the cipro is working well, but is it a good antibiotic for this type of infection?...seems to be, but concerned it will resurface. I know Keflex is what is normally used.