fromfargo
Feb 9, 2013, 12:54 PM
I believe I have an infection either in my jaw or a tooth. I went to a walk-in clinic a few days ago to have it checked out (I do not have dental insurance). They said they couldn't tell what was causing my pain. I have been on an antibiotic for three days now and the pain has not subsided. I have been icing the area and rotation four Advil and two Tylenol every 4-6 hours. The pain is severe and the lower part of my jaw into my neck to swollen. I am also having pain when I swallow. It is the weekend and my only opion for 3 days is to go to the ER. Should I?
tickle
Feb 9, 2013, 01:14 PM
A severely abscessed tooth can cause what you describe, in fact left untreated, the infection from a tooth like that can cause heart attacks, just give you an example of what you can expect if left untreated. Yes, there is obviously a large infection building up in your jaw line, that is why the swelling and pain.
That tooth needs to come out and strong antibiotics taken to alay the infection before it gets further into your system.
Either to your dentist, who will x ray to find out just how far the infection has done, or the ER; I would be more likely to choose your dentist if you feel you can get an appt. immediately.