I've had the same thing happen to me, but my gum line receded and I will most likely have the tooth extracted. I've been pulling close to 10 months now, using different oils, adding oil of oregano and cayenne. I also have to have gum surgery, as the infection has made my gum recede, and the infertion got into a good tooth, and I may have to have work on that as well. I rode it out, and for me, it was totally not worth it. Something to consider for your friend.