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Old 12-22-2015, 10:56 AM
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Bryanna Bryanna is offline
Grand Magnate
 
Join Date: Feb 2007
Posts: 4,624
15 yr Member
Bryanna Bryanna is offline
Grand Magnate
Bryanna's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2007
Posts: 4,624
15 yr Member
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Angels,

If you are comfortable seeing this same oral surgeon, then yes, call him and get in to see him. Xrays will most likely be needed and possibly a 3D scan also. There is a definite problem that needs to be diagnosed properly and treated accordingly. This may require both the OS and the ENT to work together. So you need to discuss that with both the OS and the ENT. If they put you off by just prescribing more antibiotics, then find another OS and ENT who will work together. FYI... it is not uncommon for oral surgeons and ENT drs to corroborate on patient cases. So don't assume you are asking for something unusual.

It is important for you to know that the infection in that area of your mouth started with the teeth. That means if the teeth were infected prior to the rc procedures, they have remained infected and the bacteria has been proliferating since that time because root canal therapy does not cure infected teeth. So however long ago that was is when it all began. Not when you first noticed symptoms. Due to the longevity and severity of the infection, you may need to consult with an Infection Disease specialist. So that is something you should be discussing with the OS and the ENT.

I know this is very difficult to deal with and you are most likely feeling like crap from the infection. However, if you give the impression to either the OS or ENT that you are willing to go along with more antibiotics without a definitive diagnosis, then that is how they will treat you. Sometimes we have to muster up the strength to ask uncomfortable questions in order to seek some reasonable answers. For example, ask the OS if it's possible the grafts were put in too soon before the infection was cleared and if it would be wise or helpful to remove them? What would be the advantages and disadvantages of doing that at this time? Is there still an open communication into my sinus from my jaw? How can this infection affect my systemic (overall) health and what are the chances of it traveling to my eyes or my brain?
Please know that these are not unrealistic questions.

Most often when a dentist or doctor gets the impression that the patient feels deeply concerned about the infection making them seriously ill and that you are no longer willing to put a band ade on the problem, they are more likely to act differently towards you.

I'm sorry you are going through all of this. I wish getting the proper help were easier and we didn't have to work so hard at obtaining it. But in some cases, we just have to be persistent until it gets resolved.

Bryanna




Quote:
Originally Posted by Angels31 View Post
Thank you for your response, Bryanna. With the holidays that is easier said than done. My question is, should I call the oral surgeon and is there a way he can tell if this is being caused from the bone graft material? Like an X-ray ? Also, I am just wondering why an infectious disease specialist? I tried to get into one a while back and they wouldn't take me. This is so hard as nobody seems to care and I feel like I slip through the cracks everywhere. This has been going on almost a year now. I need to go back to work as in February I start on Cobra and I won't be able to afford it. I work for the airlines and can't fly like this. Ian so frustrated!
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Bryanna

***I have been in the dental profession for 4 decades. I am an educator and Certified Dental Assistant extensively experienced in chair side assisting and dental radiography. The information that I provide here is my opinion based on my education and professional experience. It is not meant to be taken as medical advice.***
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