Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
tions most commonly is untreated infection or decay (caries) in teeth from which bacteria
spread to the bone surrounding the root.
Individuals with dental abscesses usually have a history of dental pain, but pain may be
absent at the time the abscess forms. They also have swelling that is usually on the side of
the gum next to the lips or cheek. If the infection has spread to the surrounding soft tissue
(cellulitis), swelling may involve the cheek and can be massive.
The treatment for an abscess is drainage, which can be accomplished by extracting the
tooth, incising and draining the abscess, or a root canal. None of these procedures should
be carried out by individuals who have no experience with them. The individual must be
evacuated todental care. Ifswelling indicative ofcellulitis ispresent, theindividual should
betreatedwithantibiotics.Penicillinismostcommonlyusedindentalpractice,butaceph-
alosporin such as Keflex® is acceptable. Clindamycin is a good alternative for individu-
als allergic to penicillin, but such allergy is much less common in residents of developing
countries who are rarely treated with antibiotics.
Lost Fillings or Crowns
Fillingsorcrownsareperiodicallylostfromteeth.Examinationbyadentistoftencannot
detect teeth from which these structures are about to be lost. Commonly such loss res-
ults from an underlying infection (caries) but occasionally occurs without infection being
present. The filling or crown should be saved if possible because sometimes it can be re-
stored.
On an extended outing a small amount of dental cement, which is available over the
counter, can temporarily cement a crown back in place. If the tooth is not painful, a dent-
ist's attention, removal of any infected tissue, and permanent replacement of the structure
can be delayed until the individual returns home.
EAR INFECTIONS
Ear infections frequently occur in infants and young children but are uncommon in older
persons. Swelling of the mucous membrane or enlargement of the adenoids in young
people easily blocks the eustachian tube that drains the middle ear. However, this tube is
larger in adults, and these disorders rarely produce obstruction. In the absence of eustachi-
an obstruction, ear infections are uncommon.
Acold,sinusitis,orhayfeverusuallyprecedestheearinfection.Theprincipalsymptom
is pain in the ear. Fever or malaise may be present. Infrequently, a purulent discharge from
the ear can be found.
Therapy consists of the oral administration of amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin®).
Doublestrength trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim or Septra®) can be substituted
for individuals allergic to penicillin. A systemic decongestant should also be given to help
reduce swelling around the opening of the eustachian tube. A hot-water bottle and mild to
Search WWH ::
Custom Search