thanks for all the ideas! actually it is feeling much better - got some ear drops and am taking tylenol. i feel 100 percent better! i still may go to the doctor on wednesday (that is my day off and my doctor's office is basically a clinic where you don't need an appointment) definitely cancelling my dentist appointment on wednesday - don't need to sit in the chair with my mouth wide open with my ear not feeling quite up to par. you guys are the bestest!