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Dentistry/Tooth problem

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Question
Well for a while now one of my wisdom teeth have been coming out (I'm nearly 19 now) and it was ok at first and then there was a really bad taste around the tooth.  Now the tooth is starting to hurt aswell.  I don't get dental insurance for another year so I was wondering if this is somthing I can wait on until then.

Answer
Hi

It really depends how much trouble it is giving you. The gum is infected, hence the pain and bad taste. You may be able to control this just by rinsing the area frequently with warm salt water - a teaspoon of salt dissolved in a tumbler of water that is as hot as you can comfortably stand in your mouth. Gargle around the tooth with this and it will help.

If it settles then don't worry - if not you ought to see a dentist.

Regards

Tony Appleton

Dentistry

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Tony Appleton BDS DPDS

Expertise

I am an experienced general dental practitioner in private dental practice. I have worked for the past 25 or so years in the UK, and own a busy practice in Stratford upon Avon, Stratford Dental. From early 2012 my wife and I moved to Canberra, Australia, where I have taken up the position of Lead Dentist in a large city-centre practice. I will happily answer questions related to general practice, and have interests in endodontics (root canal), dental implants, CEREC/E4D cad-cam dentistry and cosmetic dentistry.

Experience

I have been a general dental practitioner for over 25 years, working initially under the NHS, but since 2001 have been solely in private practice. I run a busy practice with my wife, Lisa, who is also a dentist. I have also been closely involved in the training of young dentists, and have lectured to dentists on a variety of subjects, both clinical and managerial, related to general dental practice.

Organizations

Church Street Dental Practice

Stratford Dental

Modern Dentistry

British Dental Association



Publications

British Dental Journal

Cancer Treatment Reviews



Education/Credentials
BDS Sheffield 1986 DPDS Bristol 2001

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