I had two cavities filled on my lower left molars (18,19) 2.5 weeks ago. Prior, I had no pain or sensitivity. Following the procedure I had dull pain in my jaw that radiated to the lymph node behind my ear all the way to my inner ear. The pain increased throughout the day causing a dull headache. Treatment with a Z Pack did nothing to improve the symptoms. I went back to have another cavity filled this past Monday and was told I had a high spot on the filling. It was ground down, and he moved on. 2 days later and I have had no improvement in symptoms, and I still feel like my bite is off. The dentist did not want to see me back and tried to refer me to an endodontist for "a root canal or re-do the filling". I am not eligible for endo work with my insurance for another 6 months, and begged my case to my dentist's office about out of pocket costs. My dentist agreed to see me but says I will have to go see endo anyways. I am confused about the cause of this pain -- is it from an offset bite, is it new TMJ symptoms (never had before), or can the nerve actually be dying and in need of a root canal even without prior symptoms or sensitivity? I am dissatisfied with my dental care and want to be prepared with questions when I go to my visit so I'm not referred for incompetent care.