Tooth problems

[Barbara Stewart]

I had a root canal done in April, 3 months after my last surgery. Well, apparently the root canal has not worked and now I have to see a specialist. The dentist did give me a week's worth of penicillin, but I see no improvement. SHould I be worried about the infection spreading to my heart? I haven't had any fever, but I don't feel great. My stomach is upset and I feel kind of weak. Don't know if these symptoms are related, but I am kind of worried. I'll have to wait until Monday before I can make any calls.
What do y'all think?

Barbara

 

[tobagotwo]

If you're on penicillin, that's likely the most anyone would do over the weekend. It should provide sufficient prophylaxis for your heart, assuming that the premedication theory is correct in the first place. You should stay on some kind of antibiotic continuously until this has been cleared up.

Most dentists have someone on call for emergencies, though. Try calling their number, and see if they have an answering service or recommend someone for emergencies.

Penicillin can affect your stomach as well. It kills the good bacteria that help you digest foods, especially dairy products.

In the end, if you become that petrified and near panic, go to the emergency room. It's likely not going to change anything, and might be very expensive, but it also might be better than being a complete wreck for the whole weekend, if that's your only choice.

Best wishes,

 

[Nan]

Hi, hope you are feeling a bit better by now. I'll add that the pencillin does indeed kill off the good bacteria in your intestinal tract and can upset your stomach.....eating yogurt can sometimes help, but you need to eat it every day as the antibiotic will keep killing it off....yogurt every day will replenish it for a while.

And also, your cardio probably has an on call as well as the dentist....you might consider calling them if you are still feeling icky.

And also, as Bob said, the ER is also an option if you feel really ill and frightened.

Hope that nasty old tooth feels better soon!