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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Numbness In Temple After Treatment For Gum Infection?

I had pus on the back of my gums and went to the dentist on Wednesday to get it rinsed out. I started on chlorexidine yesterday bc the pus was still coming. They said it s not on a tooth so they aren t sure the cause. Today I am feeling numbness on the same side mainly by the top of my ear/temple. Is this all related? Could it be from the stress? At what point do I need antibiotics? I am now in Phoenix (from Canada) so have no insurance down here. I have tried getting a hold of the dentist but it s Sun night and no luck so far. If I were to see someone here, would I go to a dentist or doctor?
Tue, 24 Feb 2015
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Dentist 's  Response
Hello,
I suggest that you consult a dentist and be placed on an antibiotic to control the spread of an infection. Take some anti-inflammatory medication such as Tylenol or Advil to reduce swelling and decrease discomfort. You can continue with chlorahexidine use. You may be shifting your bite or clenching your teeth as a reaction to your discomfort.
Something caught in the gum, once rinsed and removed, may take a few days to feel better, but with your symptoms increasing, I suspect there is an untreated infection source that has not yet been diagnosed. This could be a fractured tooth or abscess not yet visible on an X-ray. Once diagnosed, temporary treatment and medication may allow you to return home to complete a more involved dental procedure.
You could visit a doctor for an antibiotic prescription and most likely, from your description, be referred to a dentist for additional treatment.
Thank you for your inquiry. I hope that you find my suggestions useful and feel better soon.
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What Causes Numbness In Temple After Treatment For Gum Infection?

Hello, I suggest that you consult a dentist and be placed on an antibiotic to control the spread of an infection. Take some anti-inflammatory medication such as Tylenol or Advil to reduce swelling and decrease discomfort. You can continue with chlorahexidine use. You may be shifting your bite or clenching your teeth as a reaction to your discomfort. Something caught in the gum, once rinsed and removed, may take a few days to feel better, but with your symptoms increasing, I suspect there is an untreated infection source that has not yet been diagnosed. This could be a fractured tooth or abscess not yet visible on an X-ray. Once diagnosed, temporary treatment and medication may allow you to return home to complete a more involved dental procedure. You could visit a doctor for an antibiotic prescription and most likely, from your description, be referred to a dentist for additional treatment. Thank you for your inquiry. I hope that you find my suggestions useful and feel better soon.