Dead Tooth and Draining?

[Poodle007]

Hello!

A couple years ago, I noticed that a molar on the top of my mouth was dead. It had turned gray. I have been noticing for longer than I care to admit, that the odor when I floss around this tooth is bad. Also, I can "suck" the tooth and bad tasting liquid come out, which I spit out. I have to do this several times a day, and I am constantly worried about bad breath. I have never had any pain or swelling associated with the tooth, just the "drainage".

Of course, I am here because I have a dental phobia, but I have realized that I MUST go to the dentist about this problem. However, I also suffer from intense health anxiety, and now I am worried that infection from the tooth will go into my brain or bloodstream while I am waiting for a dental appointment. Am I being overly paranoid right now?

 

[Gordon]

Yes you're being a bit paranoid, so long as the tooth is draining then there's no real harm. The problems will really start if it either gets blocked up with a bit of food (rice is good!) or else it gets colonised by some really nasty bacteria.
Get it seen to as soon as you can pluck up the courage.

 

[Poodle007]

Thank you for your reply. I am feeling a little better now. I believe that I have mustered up sufficient courage to make my appointment tomorrow.