Exposed and rotting wisdom tooth
Added: August 19, 2008 - 9:07 PM
By: Patient Email Withheld, St. Charles, MO
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X-rays Available:
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Case Summary
Extractions / Oral Surgery
Teeth:
Case Description
My husband has all four wisdom teeth, but his lower left one is badly infected. I can see the entire surface of the tooth when I look in his mouth. It is black and the gums are swollen and puss filled. Part of the gum is dangling over the tooth/cavity. Pieces of the wisdom tooth break off and give some temporary relief when the puss drains. We understand that this is serious and needs treatment.
I was able to get our GP to prescribe antibiotics and of course he told us to get it treated. Wisdom tooth extraction is not covered by our dental so we will have to save up for this. In the meantime, what can we do to try and keep it from getting infected again?
I have him using Listerine several times a day and brushing regularly. When he chews, food falls into the cavity so he rinses when he's finished eating. He is in a great deal of pain right now, but it does seem as though the antibiotics are working at present. Any other suggestions are hugely appreciated. Thank you for your time.
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Reply: Exposed and rotting wisdom tooth
added: August 20, 2008 - 6:48 AM
this is a tough one. once the tooth abscesses like it has done, there is not much you can do short of getting it extracted. you have tried the antibiotics and have seen that they have helped a little. you have tried the listerine which is a little disinfecting and it too does not have much effect. i would get your husband in and get that bad tooth out as soon as you can manage it. only other option is to try different antibiotics but aim for the extraction. good luck,jeff dalin, dds
Reply: Exposed and rotting wisdom tooth
added: August 20, 2008 - 10:39 AM
You are correct, this is very serious and does need to be addressed. Please call our office and we would be happy to discuss your options in more detail.Thank you,Amy314-291-9000
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