I had a dental emergency three weeks ago. I’d had pain in my molars. I’m not a regular dental patient because I don’t like dentists (no offense). This experience has confirmed my feelings. Because I don’t have a regular dentist I went to something called an emergency dentist. What a joke. He said the molar needed to come out. I agreed because I was in so much pain and he said it would help. I was still in pain the next day but he said extractions can be sore for a few days. Then, my nose started doing weird things. I called. They said take some sinus medicine that there’s some things going around. Then, I developed a fever and insisted they see me. Then (and only then) did they tell me my sinus’ were perforated. They removed some bone and sent me on my way with an antibiotic. That’s been a week ago and I’m still in pain and have a fever. I have no confidence in dentists, but I’m still in pain and need help. So, convince me dentists aren’t all incompetent.
Name withheld.
Dear Anonymous,
An emergency dentist is simply a general dentist who is willing to see non-established patients in cases of emergencies such as yours. However, this particular dentist did not act responsibly. In fact, there are protocols in the case of a perforated sinus he should have followed to aide with healing. At the very least, he should have informed you and warned you to go easy on it and not blow your nose.
Another problem going on here is he seems to have you on the wrong antibiotic. This needs to be dealt with right away before you end up with a medical emergency. I’d call your medical doctor and let him know what is going on so he can get you on the correct medication. You should feel significantly better within 24 hours of the right antibiotic.
Normally, when dealt with properly and right away a perforated sinus can heal on their own. However, yours has been left to linger. I’d like you to see an ENT. Call their office and let them know what transpired with the emergency dentist. They should arrange an emergency appointment for you so you can get in sooner. This will likely need some help.
Replacing Your Molar
Though it isn’t an aesthetic issue for you, you really should consider replacing the missing molar. When an empty space is left, the opposing teeth will look for something to touch and start “reaching up” to find the opposing tooth. That will get uncomfortable for you.
Additionally, it will be easier for you to eat with something there. The best tooth replacement is a dental implant. However you want an experienced implant dentist with a lot of post-doctoral training.
You’ll also want to make sure they don’t rely on traditional x-rays for placement. It’s important they use a CT scan when determining placement. Otherwise, they can risk perforating your sinuses yet again.
This blog is brought to you by La Crescenta Dentist Dr. Robert Thein.
