My fiance has been having some issues with his wisdom teeth. He’s had problems in the past, but this seems different. It’s swollen, like the other was, but this seems to have a flap. I’m a little worried that will make it a problem. Can you advise us? We don’t yet have a dentist for him. We’re new to our area. He’s in more pain than I like to see him in.

Claire F. – Oklahoma

Claire,

Everyone’s wisdom teeth behave differently. They’re tricky under the best of circumstances. They come in late in life, just about the time we finally feel our mouths are established and settled. Now, we’re having to make room for something new.

It’s a little like life isn’t it? Constant change and upheaval. Sometimes the change goes smoothly. Other times it’s bumpy or worse, destructive. In which case things need to be removed. That might be where your fiance is.

It sounds like he could be developing an infection. I realize you don’t have a dentist. This is a case where I’d say he’d need to be seen sooner rather than later. Many dentists treat emergency dental needs whether or not you’re a patient. Some will even see you that day.

Do an internet search for an emergency dentist and see who pops up in your area.  It wouldn’t hurt to take the extra step and check out some of their reviews before calling, just to make sure they have a good chairside manner too.  When you’re in pain, you don’t want to deal with a surly practitioner.

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