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Question:
Draining teeth: My father has a bad metallic taste in his mouth. His front teeth appear to be draining. This has been going on since January 2004. He had the one front tooth filled about 2 weeks ago but it still appears to be draining. He has been on antibiotics for a while and now is on intravenous
antibiotics for an unrelated illness.
Why would teeth drain like this? What would be the cause of the metallic taste? His dentist and medical doctor have not been much help. A sinus infection has been ruled out. ...Visitor from PA
Answer:
Thank you for your question about your father's condition. There are a few reasons that he may have a metallic taste.
Some antibiotics can cause a metal taste. Does he have fillings? ... for they may cause a metal taste along with any type of removable prosthesis. Also infections will cause a change in taste.
The draining may be from periodontal disease, a condition where the bacteria lives between the teeth and the gums and causes an inflammation of the gum tissue. This condition can be controlled by deep cleanings and the removal of the bacteria.
If the teeth have died due to trauma or decay then the teeth may have an infection in it and are draining through the gums. This may not be visible in an x-ray for there may not have been enough bone destruction.
If there is puss draining from the teeth and your dad has been on antibiotics for a long time then the bacteria may be resistant to the antibiotics that are being used. It may be helpful to culture the fluid
which is being drained and see if there is any medication which may help.
Editorial Staff
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