Sore throat or sore tooth? A case of chronic pharyngitis and recurrent mouth ulcers

Abstract

Sore throat and mouth ulcers are two common conditions seen at the outpatient clinic of family physicians or otolaryngologists. In this case, a 37-year-old female patient had a sore throat and recurrent mouth ulcers that persisted for two months. Despite two courses of oral antibiotics and various investigations, her problem did not resolve. It was later discovered that the patient had a re-root canal treatment and a metal crown fitted prior to the onset of her symptoms. The patient had an uneventful recovery following the removal of the metal crown. Had the dental history been carefully explored, the patient would not have suffered a prolonged course of the condition. This case also demonstrates the importance of careful use of antibiotics in the medical practice, and metal materials in the dental practice.