Hi Bryanna

HELP! Here is where I am at the moment and need to make a decision very soon re: removing the graft. I have had the low grade fever for approximately three weeks after an extraction/dental graft. Also have had ear pain on the same side. I'm very concerned about my health.

Just a background reminder...I had a graft put in immediately (same day) after an extraction, which was relatively soon after a root canal. This is the same tooth that has been bothering me for 5 to 6 months.

To see what might be going on, I have had a lot of blood work...16 vials of blood altogether. I took a blood culture x3 at the hospital. This was taken approximately 6 days after being completely off of antibiotics. The preliminary report came back fine (no infection). The final report should be back any day now (they culture it for five days).

My blood work indicated that I have Sjorgens Syndrome (sp?). I've had dry eyes for some time now and dry mouth, actually for a very short amount of time.

The dentist office called regarding removing the stiches...which I did the other day and spoke w/ the doctor at length about my options. He also gave me a shot of Ozone in the area, saying that this might help with inflammation.

He said after 10 days it is hard to take out the graft and he said that the graft should NOT be causing any problems ... it looks perfect. I asked him to take an xray of the graft and he changed the subject and basically refused stating that it looked "textbook perfect," one of the best ones he has done.
However, he stated that he would be willing to remove the graft if I wanted him to.

I am very concerned about MY HEALTH.

I went to an Oral Surgeon for a second opinion and he stated that I justed needed more rest time...give it two more weeks...rinsing with salt water and the fever should abate. That was about a week ago. The fever is the same...perhaps a tiny bit worse.

Questions:
1. Is it possible to have an infection in the gums, tooth or w/i a dental cavity w/o it showing up in the blood work?
2. Have you ever heard of anyone having crazy fevers after a dental procedure and does it usually mean infection?
3. Is the removal of the graft after 10 days likely to be difficult and/or traumatic? Would it be better to go to an Oral Surgeon for this removal? (I'm kinda thinking I might have trouble convincing one to do it under these circumstances).
4. Is my ear pain likely nerve pain or muscle pain? (As a side note: I've been to an ENT twice and he says my ear pain is related to dental issues).

Thank you!!!