Expert: Gary Backlund, DMD, MSD - 4/8/2005

Question
Hi,
  Im going through alot of pain sence i got started with my root canal. My dentist only got the first part finished so far. I have a filling to replace part of my tooth. And I go back to the dentist on wed. the 20th. The dentist perscribed me 500 mg of penacillin (might have spelled that wrong) and 800 mg of motrin, but it doesnt seem to be working well at all. I was woundering if you had any other sugestions on how to get rid of this pain. Im 17 and missed two days of school already because of the pain... please... if you have any suggestions let me know...
                             Thanks
                                  -Lizz  

Answer
Hi Lizz,

WOW...sounds like you are really going through it! While most root canals go quite easily, some can be tough. Without knowing more about your case, it is hard for me to give you good advice. However, what you are experiencing is NOT normal! If you have not called your dentist to tell him/her, you need to do that ASAP! There are many things that could be causing your pain, but it should not be this bad and should only last a day or two. If your dentist is unable to help, I would ask for a referral to a specialist. I'm sorry I can't be more help. Please call your dentist even if it's the weekend...that's his/her job...and it sounds like you need help.

Good luck!

Gary Backlund DMD, MSD