Menopause Matters Forum

Menopause Discussion => Other Health Discussion => Topic started by: purplenanny on December 22, 2013, 04:00:33 PM

Title: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on December 22, 2013, 04:00:33 PM
Hi Ladies
I have had extremely painful teeth for over 3 weeks now. At first the dentist said it was sensitivity due to receding gums. He took xrays and could find nothing. So I bought sensitive toothpaste and a strong mouthwash he recommended. Did this for 2 weeks, but the pain got worse. He then prescribed antibiotics which after 5 days had not touched it and it was getting even more painful.
He gave me stronger antibiotics (which was 400mg of the same type) for 3 days. Things have eased slightly but I am still in agony. I have a strong pain threshold but this is really getting to me now. I can't eat or drink very well and the night is horrible
I have several of the original dose left, so should I double them up and keep taking?
And does anyone know of anything that will provide some relief? Even short term
I have had abscess' before and this feels the same. Top and bottom left side and also hurting my ear
Purplenanny x x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: Joyce on December 22, 2013, 04:27:24 PM
Can you take Ibuprofen? It's good for toothache.

First thing tomorrow phone dentist/doctor. You don't want to be suffering over Christmas.
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: Taz2 on December 22, 2013, 04:39:17 PM
You do need to go back to the dentist purplenanny. It sounds like peridontal disease which I had a couple of years ago (I posted on here about it - think I called it "dental abscess and not finished the shopping yet" ). You need a certain type of antibiotic - anaerobic type - to kill the infection but it doesn't always work. There is info about peridontal and gum problems here http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Gum-disease/Pages/Introduction.aspx  which may be helpful. What type of painkiller are you using?

Taz x  :hug:
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: CLKD on December 22, 2013, 04:56:16 PM
Oh poor you!  You need to discuss with your Dentist what the plan is to help receding gums. This is why I had implant surgery, so that the bone in the jaw has something to work upon i.e. when eating, talking, yawning the teeth react with the bone which helps reduce the chance of gums receding.

Oil of cloves can be useful with dental pain, osmosis I think it's called.  A small drop in water and swill or a small drop on a cotton bud and rub the painful area gently. 
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on December 22, 2013, 05:52:10 PM
Thank you good ladies.
I am taking 30/500 solpahdine cocodamol. I have been advised not to take iboprufen due to dodgy kidneys but I must admit I have taken some yesterday and today and it is helping.
I will try the cloves , thank you- I have some in the cupboard. Date is 2005 - do you think that matters??
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: Dyan on December 22, 2013, 06:46:04 PM
O poor you PN.
Here's a  :bighug:
Hope you're feeling better soon.
Dyan C
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: Trey on December 22, 2013, 07:18:33 PM
Hi PN, did you know that estrogen has a big effect on helping prevent receding gums.  I'm sorry but can't recall the source, but it was a thorough report on how declining estrogen levels can cause receding gums.  But I agree with Taz that you must get it treated as can lead to a lot of issues with jaw and teeth.  Do you gargle with warm salt water for antiseptic and local relief?
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on December 22, 2013, 07:37:18 PM
Hi Trey
I am not on HRT so I don't think the oestrogen is relevant to me?

I will try the salt water, thank you.

Do you know what treatment there is for receding gums?

PN
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: Limpy on December 22, 2013, 07:49:50 PM
PN - Please see the dentist tomorrow or Tuesday.

You say you are not on HRT, hence presumably are not getting oestrogen, hence receding gums, perhaps?
Salt water may help, but oestrogen does help to plump things up generally.
I think Trey is right, sadly I can't quote the source either.

Please see dentist tomorow, hope things improve soon.
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on December 22, 2013, 07:59:40 PM
Thanks Limpy, I will.

Sorry Trey - I read that the wrong way about Oestrogen, I thought you meant it caused receding gums!! These damn antibiotics are fizzling my brain!

How do I get Oestrogen without HRT (had bad effects)?

I do have regular 6 month check ups and hygienist and my gums never bleed, so it is all a bit strange

PN
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: honeybun on December 22, 2013, 08:02:17 PM
I had bleeding and receding gums before HRT. The difference was amazing.

I do hope you get something to help very soon. My dentist always recommends Corsydl mouth wash.


Honeyb
x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: Trey on December 23, 2013, 12:15:43 AM
Whoops, lost my post.  I wish there were more studies on the things that hormones act on throughout the body.  I find it annoying that sexual hormones are perceived dangerous, whereas thyroid hormone is considered perfectly safe.  I've been on estrogen for over thirty years and my mother, who is 98 in March, longer than me.  Another thread perhaps....
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: Taz2 on December 23, 2013, 08:57:27 AM
I agree Trey. Over here in the UK the dangerous part seems to be combined HRT not oestrogen only HRT - especially as you get older?

Taz x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: ann123 on December 23, 2013, 10:09:49 AM
Did the dentist give you metronidazole or flagyl (same antibiotic) it kills anaerobic bacteria which are the cause of most abscess in that area.
It is a horrible drug to take but if it doesn't kill the infection then the dentist needs to take further action. Sorry to hear you are in pain. I think dental pain is one of the worst!
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: CLKD on December 23, 2013, 11:31:14 AM
Cloves don't go off!  give the packet a good rattle and use as necessary.  How is the pain this morning?
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on December 23, 2013, 11:40:53 AM
Hi
Yes the dentist gave me metronidazole, 200 mg to start then 400mg after 4 days of no reprieve. What will be the further action?

I have an appointment at 12.45 and I am terrified at what he will do. It seems to be easing today, but last night was the worst pain ever - I badly overdosed on painkillers I am ashamed to say but I did not know what to do with myself. Feeling sick this morning - not surprisingly.

Thanks for your support ladies, much appreciated. PN x x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: CLKD on December 23, 2013, 11:42:00 AM
Make sure that you tell the Dentist exactly how many painkillers you ahve taken as it can alter any LA he may need to inject  ;)

Let us know how you get on!
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on December 23, 2013, 11:45:32 AM
LA ???  oh my god, now I am worried - I am no good with injections!!!!!!
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: CLKD on December 23, 2013, 11:51:29 AM
It's the painful bit, anything after once the LA has infiltrated the gum line will be easier for the Dentist  ;) ....... if you say you don't like jabs then he/she may be able to rub some LA gel on first ............ DO TELL how you feel!
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on December 23, 2013, 12:07:41 PM
Thanks CLKD, I will tell him everything. :( (http://:()
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: CLKD on December 23, 2013, 03:34:49 PM
Still in 1 piece?
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on December 23, 2013, 04:48:18 PM
Ha! just about thanks CLKD

Dentist thoroughly investigated (ouch!) and remains convinced it is gum infection top and bottom. I have 2 areas that are very difficult to clean and he thinks this is where it started.

Wanted to prescribe different antibiotic - Amoxillin (sp?) but I am allergic to all things penicillin and eurythmijiggy (can't remember the proper name) so had to stick with same one and double dose. Also put some antiseptic gel on and sent me home with some to use twice daily. So, we will see

I now have a banging headache and feel very sorry for myself.

Thank you for thinking of me - means a lot. x x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: Dyan on December 23, 2013, 07:50:32 PM
Hi Purplenanny,
Glad you got sorted.
I really feel for you with the pain.
Hopefully the ABs will clear it up.
In the meantime I'm thinking of you and I send you a  :bighug:
Lots love
Dyan x

Merry Christmas!
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on December 23, 2013, 08:31:43 PM
Thanks Dyan x x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: ann123 on December 24, 2013, 10:00:50 AM
I hope you are ok for Xmas, it's horrible having pain
Ann
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: Trey on December 24, 2013, 05:29:10 PM
Hi PN, just want to tell you that I'm hoping you are feeling much better and can enjoy Christmas.
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on December 24, 2013, 08:41:34 PM
Thank you Trey, sadly my Son & grandsons have the sickness bug, so our family Christmas Day will not be happening. Not that I feel like it much but seeing them would have cheered me up

Thank you Ann, the pain is easing a little now and then with the help of painkillers

Have a lovely Christmas everyone and thank you for your kind wishes

PN x x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: honeybun on December 24, 2013, 08:44:59 PM
What a shame for you all. It just seems worse at this time when there is the huge expectation of enjoying your self.
Is it the noro virus. Not heard as much about it as this time last year.

Hope you have a pain free peaceful time.

Honeyb
x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on December 24, 2013, 11:09:51 PM
yes Honeybun, it is the noro virus. Nasty bug, most of the children in pre-school have it. Such a shame at Christmas time.

Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: Joyce on December 26, 2013, 07:23:09 PM
Aw poor wee souls.

Glad to hear that your pain is beginning to ease. Not much fun for you at Christmas. Hope you feel better soon.
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on December 26, 2013, 11:18:52 PM
Hi ladies

At last the antibiotics are working and the sharp pain has gone. Still can't use that side of my mouth for eating but very relieved that awful pain has left me. Must finish the course of antibiotics which hopefully will see it all gone by then

Saw my grandchildren today which really cheered me up. Hope to see the younger ones (with the sickness) in the next couple of days

Thanks for all your help. PN x x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: Dyan on December 26, 2013, 11:38:39 PM
Phew! That's a relief PN!

Perhaps you can enjoy the new year celebrations instead.

Love Dyan X
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on December 26, 2013, 11:45:07 PM
Well I actually had not thought of that Dyan, what a great idea!! ABs will be out of my system by then (all being well). I have a lot to make up for!  ::) (http://::)) PN xx
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: Joyce on December 27, 2013, 11:07:32 AM
Glad to hear they are eventually working!

Have a better New Year & enjoy yourself after all your problems.
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: CLKD on December 27, 2013, 12:48:40 PM
 :thankyou: for the update!
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on December 27, 2013, 03:58:07 PM
Thanks CB and CLKD  x x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: CLKD on December 27, 2013, 04:39:58 PM
 :hug:  gum/tooth ache can be awful ........... for me it's the not knowing how much pain relief is safe  ::)
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: ann123 on January 07, 2014, 04:47:23 PM
I have just been told I have a gum infection and given metronidazole!!!!
I have one really sore tooth but apparently is gum infection!
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: CLKD on January 07, 2014, 08:23:53 PM
The gum needs protection too ……. otherwise the tooth becomes loose
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on January 20, 2014, 09:18:11 AM
I hope your infection is better Ann123?

I now have an abscess and look like a hamster!! Managed to get an emergency app at 1030 today. No doubt more antibiotics!! and I do think this time the tooth will have to come out. This terrifies me, does anyone know if the dentist can sedate me? I know I am being weak, but it really does scare me! PN
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: honeybun on January 20, 2014, 09:53:41 AM
The dentist generally won't remove a tooth when there is an abscess. Ask about sedation. My surgery does it on a Saturday morning.

You have my sympathy I am terrified too.


 :hug:


Honeyb
x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: ann123 on January 20, 2014, 10:27:33 AM
Just back from dentist, still got infection, the hygienist cleaned the gum and I need to just keep cleaning and use mouthwash. My tooth is a little bit loose but they said it won't fall out!
Going for physio now!!!
I really feel like I am falling apart :-(
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: CLKD on January 20, 2014, 12:30:53 PM
PurplePenny - ring the Surgery and ask what procedures are in place for a very nervous patient.  Our Dentist is very good, tells me what is available and gives me the choice. 

Does your Dental Surgery have a web-site, ours does - I can send an e-mail if I need to.
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on January 20, 2014, 04:14:51 PM
 ;D (http://;D)  purplepenny  ;D (http://;D)
Managed to get an emergency appointment.
Dentist took xray (again, took one last time). Discussed root canal treatment but nerve in tooth not good and tooth slightly loose. Could not guarantee it would be succesful and did not want to put me through it all and the cost. So he recommened removal.
He had already given me 2 injections...into the abcess..agony! I was getting a bit upset and asked for sedation. He said it was possible but would have to refer me to hospital. He was so lovely and promised me I would just feel tugging and the injection wouldbe the worse bit.
So, I said yes! Had 2 more injections and he got it out.

Now I am in agony...and shock.

I have had 5 infections/abcess over the years and was told 8 years ago I would eventually lose the tooth. It was just a shock, but good I hadno time to worry. He said it was a very wise decision, the tooth was awful and treatment would not have worked. Apparently the abcess came out with the tooth.

Does anyone know if the gum is cut prior to extraction? He did something that was impossible to describe ..incredibly painful but quick.

Sorry to waffle on, I think I needed to share - nobody here but hubby and cant talk anyway!!
PN x x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on January 20, 2014, 04:23:19 PM
Hi ann123
I hope your infection clears up soon. Mine did eventually after 3 lots of antibiotics. The dentist also gave me a gel, which I am sure helped. Not sure if you can buy over counter, but it might help. PN x x
I went on to get an abcess, but my tooth was very bad. Not to say this will happen to you. x x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: honeybun on January 20, 2014, 04:35:57 PM
Take it very easy for a couple of days. No bending down or anything that will raise your blood pressure.

My hubby was told a warm water and sea salt wash the day after.

You were very brave   :medal:

Sometimes it's just better to get it done. Don't think he would have cut the gum. That usually requires stitches afterward.


Honeyb
x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: CLKD on January 20, 2014, 05:33:15 PM
Did you get antibiotic cover?  It is unusual to remove a tooth with an abscess - was it attached?  Warm salt washes every hour from tomorrow and if the pain is awful, get in contact with a Pharmacist.

 :foryou:
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on January 20, 2014, 05:45:26 PM
Thanks for the medal and info HB

CLKD I think that is why I was so shocked. I did not dream he would do anything until the abcess was gone. He said I had already had a lot of antibiotics. Apparently the abcess came out with the tooth. Very surprised no antibiotic cover. Told me to do warm salt water thingy for 5 days, thanks.
Fingers crossed. Thanks for the flowers. PN x x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: CLKD on January 20, 2014, 06:59:50 PM
Warm salty water it is then ……….
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: honeybun on January 20, 2014, 07:43:12 PM
Lots of rest. An extraction site needs time to clot and heal. Hubby over did it and ended up with stitched that's why I know rest is so important.

Put a towel over your pillow tonight in case of any dribbles  ;D


Honeyb
x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: ann123 on January 20, 2014, 08:07:17 PM
He didn't give me anymore antibiotics.
What was the gel you got?
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on January 20, 2014, 08:39:18 PM
Thanks for the tip honeybun. ;) (http://;))
What did your hubby 'overdo' ? Did he not rest properly? I really don't want to go back!

Ann123, it is corsydl (sp?) Mouth gel for infections. From the dentist.

PN x x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: honeybun on January 20, 2014, 09:53:54 PM
He just carried on as if he had not had a tooth out. If I remember he cut the grass  ::).
He does take aspirin every day and that makes it harder for his blood to clot. He is also diabetic. Oh and a bit dozy for not doing what he was told.

Just don't do anything that would increase your blood pressure and you will be just fine.


Honeyb
x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on January 20, 2014, 10:07:11 PM
Thanks Honeybun, I will behave. Too scared of going back to the dentist to do anything else! PN x x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: CLKD on January 21, 2014, 02:12:55 PM
Gums/mouths improved Girls?
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on January 21, 2014, 02:58:11 PM
Thanks CLKD, I had a rotten night but things have calmed today. Pain gone, just very sore and tender - understandably. Face swelling is reducing. Big mistake going for a walk though
Doing warm salt water - how often would you suggest, I have forgotten what Dentist said, not surprising as I was in shock at the time.
That tooth has been part of me for over 55 years, but I must say I am relieved it has gone! Just amazed at how quick it came out!
Hope your is improving Ann123?
PN x x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: CLKD on January 21, 2014, 03:33:19 PM
Quick swill every hour today and 3/4 times tomorrow, or ring your Dental Surgery for advice?
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: Cassie on January 21, 2014, 03:46:51 PM
Was it a back tooth? I would rather have an extraction ANY day over root canal and whenever I get told that I need root canal and the tooth is not one that shows, I opt for extraction, its a quick injection or 3 and a tug and out, so well, done, I think that you made the right decision, warm salt water rinsing will help and for those that need it done in future, bite on a used tea bag after extraction, it stops the bleeding, my dentist told me that :)
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on January 21, 2014, 03:52:07 PM
Thanks I will do that
Yes, back double. 3 injections  :o (http://:o)and a lot of tugging but amazingly fast removal! The injection into the abcess was the worst pain ever. But I am so pleased not to have the tooth anymore! Never knew about the teabag - how odd!
PN x x
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: honeybun on January 21, 2014, 03:56:38 PM
I can't remember what's it's called but there is something in the tea leaves that restricts and contracts the blood vessels therefore it stops bleeding.

I did suggest this to my hubby and was told in no uncertain terms he was not sticking a tea bag in his mouth  ;D

Be careful you don't rinse too much or you are in danger of washing out the clot.


Honeyb
x

I remember now. It's the tannins in the tea that stop bleeding.
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: CLKD on January 21, 2014, 04:52:03 PM
Tannin probably …..

Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on January 21, 2014, 05:04:06 PM
well I can't say I blame him! I often wonder how these things are originally found out - why would someone think of putting a tea bag in their mouth
Gum is really sore and throbbing this afternoon. I think I may have been too active and aggravated it maybe
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: Cassie on January 21, 2014, 07:51:47 PM
My hubby rinsed too much and as honeybun said he dislodged the blood clot and ended up with an infection in the bone so be careful and dont rinse too often nor too vigourously.
Title: Re: Help! Gum infection
Post by: purplenanny on January 21, 2014, 08:05:13 PM
Oh dear, thanks for the advice. PN x x