Possible gum infection?

Last night my bf said he had a terrible pain in his gums. It's in the area of his second to last tooth (molar). He keeps taking 800mg of Motrin to control the pain. Last night he said it felt swollen, but says it's not any different color than what it should be. I asked him if he's been flossing, which he has, and if his gums bleed, he said no. I'm kind of wondering myself what could be going on. I read a while back about some kid who died because an infection in his teeth and gums went to his brain, and it killed him. I have gum disease because I wasn't flossing enough and I have never had braces so my teeth are to close together. They're not totally f__ed up, but not perfect either. His teeth are fine. He's never had any real problems. I think that he said something though one time about a filling that might have fallen out. I just had mine that fell out replaced, but I never had any severe pain in the area. Can anyone tell me what's up? He goes to the regular dr tomorrow.

Possible gum infection?
Like the other answers, I believe the problem is related to his wisdom teeth. 90% of our patients describe the same symptoms as your friend has when calling into our office. Depending on whether or not the teeth are impacted (basically trying to erupt but sideways) will depend on what treatment will be required. A general dentist can take a panoramic xray (picture off all his teeth) and determine if he'll need to see an oral surgeon for removal. Some people never get their 3rd molars (I am knocking on wood as I type this) and most come in with some discomfort yet no significant problems. And as a foot note, a lot of Motrin or asprin or ibuprophen is not good for his liver. I'd recommend getting to a dentist so he'd at least know his options.





ps the child that died had not been to the dentist for sometime because his mother had not renewed his medicaid. The severity of the infections was due to lack of treatment. It did spread into the blood stream and resisted antiboitics. He was 12. This does not sound like the same thing.
Reply:if he hasn't had any wisdom teeth yet,that could be causing the soreness=they like to grow in under our molars ,pushing them up
Reply:yeah, i agree with the above answer. could very possibly be wisdom teeth. before i had mine pulled out they caused intense mouth and neck pain.



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