Signs of Infection After a Root Canal

Root canals are a common restorative dental procedure performed to treat infected or damaged teeth, and they often bring relief from pain and discomfort. However, as with any dental procedure, there’s a chance of complications during recovery. Swelling or signs of infection following a root canal can be concerning and should not be ignored. Knowing how to recognize these signs and what steps to take can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth recovery.

At Westar Dental, our dentists prioritize patient care, and part of that care is helping patients understand what to expect after a root canal. In this blog post, we’ll answer the question: What should I do if I notice swelling or suspect an infection after a root canal? We’ll also cover signs of infection, and what to do if you experience complications, and how to prevent further issues.

What to Expect After a Root Canal?

After a root canal, most patients experience some mild pain and discomfort and sensitivity as the treated tooth and surrounding tissues heal. It’s normal to have slight swelling or tenderness in the first few days following the procedure, but this should subside with time.

During a root canal, the infected pulp inside the tooth is removed, and the tooth is cleaned and sealed. The goal is to eliminate the source of infection and save the natural tooth from further decay or damage. Once the procedure is complete, your body begins to heal, and the treated tooth should return to normal function.

While the majority of root canal procedures are successful, there are instances when complications arise, such as lingering infection or excessive swelling. If left untreated, these issues can lead to more severe health problems.

Signs of Infection or Complications After a Root Canal

It’s crucial to differentiate between normal healing symptoms and signs of infection or complications. Mild discomfort and tenderness are expected, but certain signs should prompt you to contact your dentist right away. Here are the most common signs that may indicate an infection or other issues after a root canal:

1. Swelling

• Mild swelling near the treated tooth is normal for a few days after the procedure. However, if the swelling worsens, extends to your face, neck, or jaw, or does not go down after a few days, it may be a sign of infection.
• If you experience significant swelling that causes difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

2. Persistent Pain

• Some discomfort is expected after a root canal, but it should be manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and should decrease each day. If the pain is severe, throbbing, or persists beyond a few days, it could indicate that the infection was not fully eliminated, or that the tooth is not healing properly.
• Pain that returns after initially improving can also be a warning sign of infection or reinfection.

3. Fever

• A fever is a classic sign that your body is fighting off an infection. If you develop a fever after your root canal, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms like swelling or pain, it’s important to contact your dentist as soon as possible.

4. Pus or Discharge

• Any sign of pus or discharge from the gums or the area around the treated tooth is a strong indicator of infection. This can also be accompanied by a foul taste in your mouth or bad breath that doesn’t go away with normal oral hygiene practices.
• Pus indicates that an abscess has formed, which can cause further complications if not treated promptly.

5. Redness and Warmth

• Redness and warmth in the gums or surrounding tissues can be a sign of inflammation caused by infection. If the area around the treated tooth becomes visibly red or feels hot to the touch, this may be an early sign that something is wrong.

6. Feeling Unwell

• In some cases, patients may feel generally unwell or fatigued if an infection is present. If you notice a combination of systemic symptoms such as malaise, fever, and swelling, it’s essential to get in touch with your dentist or healthcare provider.

What to Do If You Notice Swelling or Suspect an Infection

If you notice any of the signs mentioned above after your root canal, it’s important to take action quickly. Here’s what you should do if you experience swelling or suspect an infection:

1. Contact Your Dentist Immediately

• If you notice swelling, persistent pain, or any signs of infection, the first thing you should do is contact your dentist. Dr. Oh at Westar Dental will be able to assess your symptoms and determine whether an infection is present or if additional treatment is necessary.
• Don’t wait for the symptoms to worsen. The earlier the infection is caught, the easier it is to treat. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection or recommend additional procedures, such as draining an abscess or retreating the root canal.

2. Follow Prescribed Treatment

• If your dentist prescribes antibiotics, it’s essential to take them exactly as directed, even if you start feeling better. Stopping antibiotics early can cause the infection to return or become resistant to treatment.
• In some cases, your dentist may need to perform additional procedures, such as reopening the root canal to clean out any remaining bacteria or infection. In more severe cases, an extraction or surgical procedure may be necessary to resolve the issue.

3. Manage Pain and Swelling

• While waiting to see your dentist, you can manage mild pain and swelling with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These medications can help reduce inflammation and make you more comfortable.
• Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the swollen area can also help reduce swelling. Use the compress for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, allowing breaks between applications.

4. Avoid Strenuous Activity

• Avoiding strenuous activity, especially activities that increase blood flow to your head (such as exercise or bending over), can help reduce swelling and prevent aggravating the treated tooth.

5. Stay Hydrated

• Drinking plenty of water can help your body fight off infection and promote healing. Staying hydrated also helps flush out bacteria and toxins from your system.

6. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

• Continue practicing good oral hygiene by gently brushing and flossing your teeth, but be careful around the treated area to avoid causing irritation. Rinsing your mouth with a mild saltwater solution can also help reduce bacteria and soothe the gums.

Preventing Infections After a Root Canal

While infections after a root canal are relatively rare, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of complications and ensure a successful recovery:

1. Follow Post-Procedure Instructions

• After your root canal, your dentist will provide you with specific instructions for hygiene and caring for the treated tooth. Following these instructions carefully can help prevent complications. This may include dietary recommendations, avoiding certain activities, and maintaining oral hygiene.

2. Attend Follow-Up Appointments

• Attending any scheduled follow-up appointments is crucial for monitoring the healing process. Your dentist will check to ensure that the tooth is healing properly and that no signs of infection are present. If a temporary filling or crown was placed, a follow-up visit will be necessary to place a permanent restoration.

3. Avoid Smoking

• Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of infection. If you smoke, consider quitting or at least refraining from smoking while your tooth heals.

4. Protect the Treated Tooth

• In the days following your root canal, be careful about what you eat and try to avoid chewing on the treated tooth. Opt for soft foods that won’t put too much pressure on the area, and avoid crunchy, sticky, or hard foods that could cause damage.

Conclusion: Swelling & Infections After Root Canals

Swelling or signs of infection after a root canal should never be ignored. While it’s normal to experience some discomfort and mild swelling after the procedure, persistent or severe symptoms may indicate an underlying issue that needs prompt attention. By recognizing the signs of infection and following the appropriate steps to address it, you can ensure a smooth recovery and protect your dental health.

If you notice swelling, persistent pain, or any other concerning symptoms after your root canal, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Oh and the team at Westar Dental in Westerville. We are here to help you through every step of your recovery and ensure that your tooth heals properly. Our goal is to provide you with the best care possible and help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.