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Question:
Nine years ago I suffered with an earache and a small sore spot high in my throat. I consulted my dentist because I was sure I had an infected tooth. He took an x-ray and said it looked fine.
Over the next few years I went back again and again and his x-ray didn't show anything. To make this very short, in the past nine years I have seen doctors of many specialties, had numerous CTscans and MRI's. An ENT removed my submandibular gland because of swelling in that area and the floor of my mouth. The pathology report showed a basically normal gland. The pain did not improve.
I have consulted numerous dentists, an oral surgeon and an endodontist over the years who have found nothing wrong with my teeth. Two weeks ago a TMJ specialist x-rayed #19 at my request and said I had a dental infection of long standing.
He could tell because of extensive calcification of the canals and evidence of extensive extrusion of the tooth. I found an endodontist with special equipment and a microscope technique to do a root canal. A week ago he did the root canal. He said I had the tooth infection for many years. He tells me that it will now heal on its own, but that if I need more treatment to clear up the effects of the long-term infection, I need to find a medical doctor to do that.
I think perhaps I have had Ludwig's Angina that was kept in check by my immune system and did not reach a critical stage. What medical specialty do you think I should see to monitor my recovery from this longstanding infection? Many ENT's examined me prior to the diagnosis and didn't find the problem. Who can help me now? ...Visitor from UT
Answer:
An oral surgeon or infectious diseases specialist. You may have other
problems that need closer attention.
Talk to your family doctor again and have him/her colloborate with the ENT and oral surgeon. Also have a TMJ evaluation done by a craniofacial specialist.
Editorial Staff
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