Again, thanks so much for the replies. I know most of you have been through a lot and it means a lot that you give your time to help others through whatever journey they may be having.

Cheryl, I don't see you as being a Debbie downer. You are absolutely right that I should follow this through until I know what is going on one way or the other. I also appreciate you sharing your experience because as much as I don't want this to be cancer, I know there is a very real possibility it is. I remain hopeful that it is something else, preferably less dangerous, but I'm not running around with blinders on either.

As for the ENT palpitating my neck, I honestly don't know what lymph nodes are supposed to feel like. I have never had them swell when I was sick or had throat infections as a child or any of that. So this swelling in my neck and cheeks is extremely new to me. What I do know is that I can feel odd feeling masses under the skin in multiple locations in my cheeks, under my jaws and in my neck, but only when I fold the skin there which the ENT did not do. I'm guessing it makes it a little harder that I am carrying around some extra weight, but he wouldn't even take the time to feel what I was trying to show him.

In any event, I will let you all know what happens at the dentist tomorrow, and thank you again for your support. Until then I will try hard not to worry.