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A 54-year-old female asked:
The backside of my left ear and my head surrounding it is numb. ive been battling a toothache for 5 days now. taking antibiotic and vicadin .
3 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in

Dr. Janelle Ferber-Stumpfanswered
Dentistry 40 years experience
Toothache symptoms: When a tooth hurts, it is a symptom of a problem. There is infection somewhere in the area. It could be around the tooth or within the tooth. You need a dentist to determine what the problem is and treat the cause. An antibiotic won't be enough without finding the source. Infections can spread, they put pressure on tissues and can cause intense ear and tissue pain. Consult a dentist asap.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
1.6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Theodore Davantzisanswered
Dentistry 42 years experience
Toothache battle: Are you under the care of a dentist? If not, you're fighting a losing battle. Antibiotics will not resolve your tooth issues, and numbness as you described can indicate a rapidly spreading infection. You need to be seen immediately by a dentist, preferably an oral surgeon.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
1.6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Arnold Malermananswered
Orthodontics 55 years experience
Need treatment: Antibiotic will not cure infected tooth, only control spread of the infection until you run out of pills. Pain killer will not cure infected tooth, only reduce severity of symptoms until you run out of pills. To cure infection you need root canal + crown or extraction + implant + crown. See your Dentist, Endodontist, or a Oral Surgeon.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
1.5k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Nov 28, 2017
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