OpenHealth Q&A

Dental and Sinus Issues: My Experience with Amoxicillin

Age: 25 Gender: Female Last Sunday, I awoke with discomfort localized in several of my teeth on the left side, specifically my front left tooth and the three adjacent ones. Throughout the day, I managed the pain with Tylenol, suspecting that it might be related to sinus issues, which I commonly experience at this time of year. By Monday morning, I noticed the pain had intensified, accompanied by slight swelling. I continued taking Tylenol into the evening and arranged for a consultation the following day. On Tuesday, I had a virtual appointment with the CVS MinuteClinic where I detailed my symptoms, including swelling in the area between my nose and upper lip, pressure in my cheek, and persistent tooth pain on that side. I did not experience any sensitivity to extreme temperatures. The MinuteClinic staff concluded that my symptoms were likely due to a sinus condition and recommended Flonase, Sudafed, warm compresses, and Advil. Wednesday morning, however, the swelling had escalated dramatically around my face, affecting my left nostril and the space between my nose and lip. I sought a virtual consultation through Geisinger urgent care, where I received a prescription for amoxicillin. I was advised to schedule a dental visit soon and was assured that the swelling should subside within two days. Currently, the swelling has spread closer to my eye, prompting concern as I can see my cheek in my peripheral vision, especially when I look down. My left nostril is congested, and I can physically feel the swelling when I touch the inside of my nose. As of today, the swelling remains consistent. This morning, I took my third dose of amoxicillin (875/125 mg), which I’m instructed to take every 12 hours. I find myself wondering whether I should continue waiting for the amoxicillin to take effect or if I should return to the urgent care for additional treatment. Should I consider going to the emergency room or an in-person urgent care facility instead? The worsening swelling is quite distressing. The pain level seems similar to yesterday, located at the base of my left nostril—it’s tender when I blow my nose, kiss my partner, or even touch it. The pain is also persistent and throbbing when unprovoked. Additionally, I’m feeling pressure in my cheek. I checked my temperature two times, first recording 97.8°F and then 97.6°F. I increasingly suspect that my ailment is more dental-related than sinus in nature, which is why I have scheduled a dental appointment for Tuesday after completing most of my antibiotic course. This situation is unusual for me; although I had a similarly less severe facial swelling incident years ago linked to the same tooth, my doctor had attributed it to sinusitis at that time, which resolved following a course of antibiotics—potentially amoxicillin, though I can’t recall exactly as it was almost a decade ago.

Answers (1)

8/21/2025, 5:11:26 PM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you're dealing with a complex situation involving potential sinus and dental issues, which can be challenging and distressing. Your symptoms of swelling, pain, and pressure are concerning, especially given the escalation you've described. It's important to address your symptoms while you're taking amoxicillin.

Key Points:

1. Worsening Symptoms: Consistent and worsening swelling and pain indicate that further evaluation may be necessary.
2. Amoxicillin Use: Though antibiotics like amoxicillin can help treat bacterial infections, the swelling can take time to resolve, but it should not continue to worsen.
3. Monitoring Your Condition: Keeping track of your symptoms and any changes will be vital.

Explanation:

While you are taking amoxicillin, which is aimed at reducing any bacterial component of your infection, your worsening symptoms of swelling and tenderness suggest that there may be an underlying issue that is not resolving as expected. Dental issues, such as an infection in the roots of the teeth or an abscess, can often lead to similar facial swelling and discomfort. Additionally, sinus conditions can exacerbate these symptoms.

Next Steps:

1. Contact Urgent Care or an Emergency Room: Given the worsening swelling and discomfort around your eye, I recommend seeking in-person medical evaluation sooner rather than later. Swelling near the eye can indicate the need for more immediate care. If possible, choose an urgent care that has dental services or access to specialists.

2. Keep a Symptom Diary: Document any changes or intensifications in your symptoms, including pain levels, swelling measurements, and any changes in temperature. This can provide helpful information to healthcare providers.

3. Proactively Manage Pain and Swelling: Continue using warm compresses to the affected area to promote drainage and relieve discomfort. Over-the-counter medications like Tylenol and Advil can also aid in managing pain; just ensure you're not exceeding recommended limits.

4. Monitor Temperature and Other Symptoms: Keep an eye on your temperature. If it rises significantly or if you develop additional signs of systemic infection (like high fever, chills, or severe headache), seek emergency attention.

5. List of Concerns for Your Appointment: Prepare specific questions for your follow-up dental appointment, focusing on how your dental health may relate to your current symptoms.

Your health and comfort are paramount, so please prioritize seeking additional medical evaluation soon. If you need further assistance or support, don't hesitate to reach out.