Thanks again guys. Visited the doctor today, and she said it looked "concerning". She thought a dentist would have a more qualified opinion for me, and told me to make an appointment right away. Also took a culture and some blood work to check for underlying viruses or health issues. I'll get the blood results tomorrow, and the culture will take longer of course.

She prescribed lidocaine for pain and antibiotics in case it's bacterial. Normally I'm reluctant to take antibiotics, but under the circumstances I think I will. If it starts to clear up at least it will ease my mind while I wait to see the dentist.

Making the appointment first thing tomorrow (it was too late today, 7:30 pm by the time I got home from the appointment).