Have had a “knot” in my upper gum

Q. Have had a “knot” in my upper gum around tooth #2 and #3 for almost 2 years. Dentist said nothing to worry about. Now after reg. Dr. said to have CT scan of this “cyst” it was found to be an abscess at the root of an old root canal. This infection has been here for 2 years….could this explain chronic fatigue, and stomach conditions with this untreated infection in body? Also endodotist now says he can do apicoectomy, but I’m wondering if at this point if an extraction may be best. Why is it so important to “keep this tooth if at all possible” if I can always get a bridge or implant later? Please advise… sooo tired mom.

A. Your question is at the sharp end of current debate in dentistry. You will find some experts convinced that focal (localised ) infections can cause general health problems. More specialists in the field would not make a strong link ,The British Endodontic Society for example would not link chronic fatigue to symptom free infection.
I personally would deal with a tooth on its own merit. In general terms I would not apicect a tooth that I hadnt tried to resolve by reroot treatment . If that failed or was not possible, I often prefer an implant to an apiectomy .
I strongly recommend that you only follow advice that is based on a clinical exam. IF you would would like a free consultation with a dentist to discuss the broad idea please contact our practice.

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Dr Rob Tennet St Johns Dental Practice 18 Bennett’s Hill, Birmingham, B2 5QJ Web: www.e-dentalpractice.co.uk
April 29th, 2011 at 08:47 PM
Craig Says :

i have a small knot under one of my tooth what can i do to remove or treat it,

April 29th, 2011 at 08:47 PM
Hayley Edginton Says :

Best to get a check up to see what is causing this before deciding on treatment regards

April 29th, 2011 at 08:47 PM
Jayne Says :

i wake up this morning and find a knot under my teeth what do i do about this

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This entry was posted on Saturday, September 27th, 2008 at 12:47 pmand is filed under Dr Tennet's Answers, Experts Answers, Q. Cosmetic Dentistry, Q. gums.