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Bit of a problem

I've got an infection in my gum, it not killing me as such but has made the bottom part of my face swell up to the size of a golf ball.

Right so do i go docs get some antibiotics & hope it isn't a prob with any teeth which i don't think it is.

Or do i go to the dentist, which could end up needed a tooth rip out or something to which i can't afford right now, as all my monies this month have gone on getting the car sorted ie new clutch and Clutch Master Clyinder & don't need a massive dentist bill on top of what im already paying out.

First thing to do is ring NHS direct on 0845 4647 and let them assess you. If you have an infection bad enough to cause face swelling you probably will be advised to get to the dentist immediately. If your dentist can't make an emergency appointment they will probably tell you to ring the ring the local emergency dentist. Do you have a boil on your gum? If so it's more than likely a tooth abscess. If it's clear they will be able to pull the tooth on the spot, if it's gone brown they will need to put you on antibiotics to get rid of the infection. Having a tooth out will be your cheapest option at £17 but an infection in the gum is potentially very dangerous and can cause a lot of problems.

Source: Been there, got the t-shirt.