I would agree with the other LJer's assessment; sounds like an absess. When you can't get on top of the pain, that's a slamdunk diagnosis. With a root canal, you would not be in constant pain, and painkillers would work more than what you've reported here. Once you get the antibiotics down, coupled with naproxsyn (sp?)or another good anti-inflammatory, you'll make it through until the dental appointment.

I'm also a grinder and in fact have broken most all of my teeth through my bruxist acts. Horrible way to deal with stress...and expensive. I would never go to a French dentist (that's almost an oxymoron; have you ever seen French people's teeth?) so I fly back to the States every time I have to get dental work done. In fact, I have two crowns and a root canal booked for my upcoming summer vacation! There's something to look forward to....