Tooth infected - concerned as I have TMJD
 

I have had a tooth infected since Feb. Due to neuropathic pain I could not have anything done with it. The dentist painted it with fluoride and the pain went away. However, the pain has now returned and I have an awful taste in my mouth. Looks like it is infected again. It has bifurcation which I think means it is really bad. In the meantime I now have TMJ in addition to the nerve pain in my mouth.
I go to the dentist tomorrow and am confused as to what to do. It will be a real killer to open my mouth as my jaw aches so much. Also, I am concerned about him cleaning it out or injection of antibiotics because of the neuropathic ( nerve) pain. Gosh - what in the world do people do in this situation? I have so many problems at once. Maybe oral antibiotics would be the answer for now.
Any ideas?
Sydney

Hi Sydney,
I know we have corresponded many times privately about your situation. It is difficult to know what exactly caused it to occur "when it did" and why then and not at an earlier dental visit. I truly think that your infected tooth could be contributing to the problem. The inflammation from an infection in the jawbone is initially somewhat self contained to a small, tight area. However, if the infection cannot be released (similar to the head of a pimple) then alot of pressure builds up which tells your immune system to send more blood to the area forcing the infection to either proliferate or find a way to temporarily release itself. Tooth infections can cause or contribute to all sorts of physical health problems because they are usually long standing before they show any symptoms.

SO many people have severe TMJ problems and having any dental work can be extremely difficult. Have you considered having conscious sedation for an extraction and/or your other dental work? It would certainly allow you to relax your jaw muscles throughout the treatment. It is similar to general anesthesia, but you are put in a twlight sleep rather than a deep sleep and this type of anesthesia can be done is some dental offices.

I know you have read alot about TMJ on the web. I came upon this site today and thought it offered some informative information about different conditions that mimic TMJ. http://www.tmjs.net/treatment.php

Another link on the same site about facial pain not TMJ related:
http://www.tmjs.net/facialpain.php

I really wish I could be of some help to you. I do understand how much you are suffering. I pray that you get the help you need very soon.

Bryanna