Gum Issues?

[Palmyra]

Yes, good luck Elephant...glad its a bit better, and I hope you get some answers very soon.
By the way, one simple way to try to figure out if it is sinus is to lean over at the waist, placing you head below the level of your heart. If the pressure/pain increases, especially if it is on both sides, it is more likely to be sinus. If it seems to be localized to one small area (assoc'd with one tooth,) has a 'throbbing' component to the pain, or is sensitive to percussion (tap on the tooth with something solid, like the handle of a fork) then it may be tooth related.

[elephant]

Palmyra, I had a root canal on my upper last molar, that is the one that has been giving me trouble the last two years. Plus I have been on Bactrim for two years. I take DS bactrim every other day. About every six weeks I end up taking it 7 -10 days in a row because of suspected sinus infection. My question is why can't I just have that molar pulled out? I would love to have it pulled out so I don't every have to deal with it again. My denist just told me, its not a good idea. Why?

[Palmyra]

Hi there Elephant,
I didn't know you had been having trouble with that tooth for such a long time, and that it had been previously endodontically treated. Is the dentist that advised not removing the tooth the same one that did the root canal? Maybe it is time for a second opinion.
I hope you get some answers today, or at least an appointment with someone that can be of help.

[Sangye]

Pull that sucker!

[elephant]

It is not the same doctor, just a denist. He tapped on my tooth and took an xray of it. He thinks it is a sinus infection. I said he will call me in a couple of days to make sure that I am better, if not I will see the root canal specialist for an opinion.

[Palmyra]

Sounds like a good plan Elephant. Glad you were able to see someone today!

The roots of upper molars extend into the maxillary sinus. That can make determining where the pain is coming from very difficult. AND, as those roots do extent into the maxillary sinus, extraction can lead to an exposed sinus tract...not a good thing. Glad you have a plan, and do keep us posted!
Don't forget to floss!

[pberggren1]

I just finnished flossing, brushing, and showering.

[Palmyra]

So when is the big date it sounds like you are all spiffed up and ready to go! Come have dinner with us in Austin, Texas, very possibly one of the 'coolest cities' in the US. It will be quite the trek for you, but once you have seen Common Ford Park, and had a bit of bar-b-que on the river, a dive into the cool water, and then a romp into town for a tappas meal and good live music, you will have a smile to last for years. Bring your floss!

[pberggren1]

I would so love to come down there to Austin to see you guys.

[elephant]

Thanks again Palmyra, I see the ENT friday and he will check my sinuses. My molar is feeling better.