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At Smithville Dental in Smithville, Texas, we strive for your time with us to be easy and productive. Unfortunately, root canals are one of the common treatments that most of us need to be able to save a damaged or infected tooth. Like any medical procedure, though, complications can sometimes happen, and this blog has been made with an intention to provide the best information to our patient.
Signs of Infection After Root Canal
Familiarizing yourself with the signs of infection after a root canal can help you take action in time to protect your oral health. Here are five key signs to look out for:
Persistent Pain
While you should experience some soreness following a root canal, if the pain is severe and cannot be alleviated with over-the-counter pain relievers, it could be due to infection. If you have shooting, aching pain that you cannot get away from, you should call us. If your pain persists for more than several days, it may indicate that bacteria continue to thrive in your tooth or other tissues surrounding the tooth.
Swelling and Inflammation
Swelling of the gums or face on the side of the treated tooth is also a sign of infection. If your gum or face on one side of your mouth turns red, swollen, and/or painful and persists for more than two days, it may be your body’s response to infection. See an expert ASAP to diagnose and treat the cause.
Fever and Generalized Symptoms
Fever after a root canal is a red flag. Your body may start off by giving itself a fever while fighting an infection. If you experience flu-like symptoms like fatigue or chills and experience a general lack of well-being, make sure to contact our team. Systemic symptoms often show signs that the infection has spread into your system.
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Drainage or Pus
If there is some form of drainage from the gums around the treated tooth, it is a good sign that there is an infection. Pus and any other form of unusual oozing indicate the spread of the infection and should therefore be given prompt medical attention. This can also be accompanied by a foul taste or odor in the mouth.
Tooth Discoloration
Sometimes, there may be discoloration of the treated tooth following a root canal. Discoloration of the tooth to dark or grey color can indicate that the treated tooth is not healing properly or is infected. Monitor any change in tooth color post-treatment and communicate with your dentist if you notice any change visibly.
What Should Be Done If You Experience Any of these Signs?
If you experience any of these symptoms in the following days after a root canal, do not hesitate to call Smithville Dental, as swift diagnosis and treatment are essential when treating these infections. We can order more images or an exam to determine if we will continue the treatment or give you an antibiotic course.
Conclusion
A root canal is a great procedure to save your tooth and ease that pain, but you must be alert afterwards. Familiarizing yourself with what signs of infection look like is the best way to receive optimum health after your treatment. The team at Smithville Dental is committed to giving you the best care. Contact us for the best root canal treatments.