My sister suffered a break of posterior molar either 31 or 32, nearly a year ago. Because of unemployment and/or dental costs, she has not had it treated. The last two weeks she has been experiencing significant pain, culminating with waking to swelling this morning. The right side of her face, (jaw/cheek) has stark swelling and the pain is again, severe. Today is Saturday and availability of dentists is slim to none.

Any suggestions as to the level of emergency this swelling may be? Can she wait until Monday to get treatment? And, some immediate aids she could use to address the swelling and pain?

Thanks in advance!

- k MT

Hello k MT,

Oh boy, I hope you read this today. Your sister should go to the nearest emergency room TODAY! There is a condition called Ludwig's syndrome that can EASILY occur if an infection in lower molar tooth causes noticeable swelling in the face, neck or jaw. This syndrome can be life threatening because the swelling becomes internal and closes off the airway.

I URGE YOU TO GET YOUR SISTER TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM IMMEDIATELY!!!

PLEASE DO NOT GIVE THIS SITUATION A SECOND THOUGHT...... PLEASE KEEP US POSTED ON HOW SHE IS DOING.

Bryanna

Bryanna - thank you. We're on it as I type this. I'll let you know how it goes. The swelling DID increase as she napped. Scary.

Thanks Bryanna - on top of it as I write this. Took the trip to the ER - she's there now. The swelling increased as the day went on. Thanks again for your input.

k.......

As soon as you can, please let us know how she is doing!

Bryanna

The news is good. My sister is on an antibiotic IV right now, and will need to receive another every 8 hours until Monday. They also referred her to the local community clinic which apparently has an oral surgeon (affordable!) that can then remove the tooth on Monday.

So, one more time and I can't say it enough, THANK YOU for your help. Your insight was invaluable today. If you're ever in Montana, let me know. We at least owe you a nice dinner! : )

THANK GOODNESS!!

The IV antibiotics work very quickly because they bypass the digestive tract and get into the blood stream immediately. She should begin to notice a decrease in the pain within a few hours......... but the swelling may or may not subside a whole lot which is normal because there is still inflammation there. Very good that she is seeing the oral surgeon on monday!!

I am SO glad that you posted here and I saw your message. I don't have any plans on traveling to Montana, but if I ever do, I'll let you know beforehand!!

Please continue to keep us posted on how she is doing.......

Bryanna ~'.'~