Well guys, thank you all so much for your suggestions (and the link to Roswell). Words cannot express my gratitude! I saw my ENT, and much to my surprise, a biopsy was not in order!!! Somewhat a relief, but not 100%. The gum around the tooth is a bit swollen, tender, feels "split" and there appears to be a bit of white around it. I do understand, however, that it is amazing what we notice (and can even imagine) when we look in our mouths "with a torch" as somebody put it, so frequently. I will be calling my dentist soon and Roswell Park as well (as you all suggested). After reading reading some of the other posts on here, I feel better. I too can become very anxious about this stuff. Thank you all for your input. My prayers are with you all, and again I wish you all the VERY best in you roads to wellness (or remaining there). Peace to all...