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FAQ: Gums

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Question:
I have a fistula on my gum (tooth 14) and saw an oral surgeon. He says I need a root canal. I am leaving in 10 days for Europe and my dental insurance will not be active until July when I return. I am not currently in pain, although when I am not on penicillin, I find the fistula annoying.

My doctor is willing to give me additional anitbiotics for the trip. Should I ask her to give me a pain medication, just in case? I do not want to damage the bone or take major chances, with either my tooth or my enjoyment of my trip. Can I wait until I return or should I "bite the bullet" and try to get in to the endodontist before I go? Jeannie in IL

Answer:
Jeannie, A fistule means that the infection from the tooth has found a way out... an escape route. Normally you would have had pain and swelling, but due to the escape route your symptoms are less than normal.

This does not mean that you may not have problems, especially when the airplane hits 30,000 feet and cabin pressure causes the infection to explode. If you are getting the root canal, make sure you finish it at least 2 weeks before the trip to allow for some bone healing. Personally, I wouldn't go to Europe with a bad tooth...you may end up like Tom Hanks (ha, ha)

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