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A 32-year-old male asked:

Up right wisdom tooth removed because of cavity/ infection 7days ago. took augmentin (amoxicillin and clavulanate) for 7 days no use. now have infect on lower wisdom tooth which is very close to nerve. seein doc soon. action plan?

4 doctor answers8 doctors weighed in
Dr. Theodore Davantzis
Dentistry 42 years experience
Oral Surgeon: Your oral surgeon will determine the best course of action. Just because the tooth is close to the nerve does not mean it cannot be extracted. If it is infected, that may be your only option.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Daniel Quon
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 44 years experience
Have it removed: If the lower wisdom tooth is infected and indicated for removal, it should be removed. From an anatomical viewpoint, the root of the wisdom tooth in the lower jaw is usually the tooth structure closest to the inferior alveolar nerve as it courses through the lower jaw. Your dentist or oral surgeon can and should discuss the risk of nerve involvement with you prior to performing surgery.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Paul Grin
Pain Management 38 years experience
Follow instructions: If wisdom teeth need to be removed, it is better to remove them ASAP. Follow your doctor's instructions for any special needs you may have.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Debra Rosenblatt
Dentistry 40 years experience
Treatment plan: Need a treatment plan. Need to address remaining three third molars. If all three need to be extracted, do so prior to any additional infections. Speak with your dentist or oral surgeon to plan ahead and avoid unnecessary pain and expense.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Mar 22, 2020

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