How Do You Know if you have a Root Canal infection?

City dental hopsital doctor examining patient for root canal treatment

Root canal infection symptoms

Root canal infection is an oral ailment that happens when germs get into the inner chamber of the teeth through untreated dental decay or an injury. The infection can develop fast after the bacteria attack the pulp substance of the internal layer of the tooth. So, you should get root canal infection treatment immediately if you have a root canal infection. Root canal infection treatment removes the diseased pulp and saves the tooth.

Pain after root canal infection

The primary indication that someone has a root canal infection is pain, which prompts them to seek dental care. A root canal infection leaves a trail of intense pain. When you strain or bite down upon that sensitive tooth or hurt tooth, the agony gets worse. Additionally, drinking or eating hot or cold things might make your teeth more sensitive.

Gum inflammation or gum pain after the root canal can be another potential source of discomfort. The gum becomes red and sensitive as a result of the swelling. Most of the time, the region around the impacted tooth experiences swelling and pain.

Dental abscess

Dental abscesses are a common occurrence and can be pretty painful. They happen when germs and decaying pulp material produce large pus in the root canal or pus-filled pockets surrounding the tooth root. This manifests as an enlarged or persistent red lump or a tooth pimple on the gum that produces extreme uneasiness and poor smell. The abscess may also begin to leak a foul-smelling substance.

Fortunately, root canal infection treatment can help drain the painful abscess and remove the germs to reduce discomfort. If you are showing symptoms of a tooth abscess, we recommend seeking an immediate root canal infection treatment from a qualified periodontist as soon as possible.

Bad breath

Infected tooth roots can cause Root canal infections that often cause persistent bad breath, even after dental washes, flossing, and brushing. If bad breath persists, there is likely an infection. Root canal infections are caused by bacteria that produce an odor. This results in bad breath and an unpleasant aftertaste. The condition can get worse if an abscess form. 

Signs of infection after root canal 

1. Pimple on gums

Patients scheduled to receive a root canal procedure may experience an abscess or pimple on their gums near the tooth beforehand. After the treatment, this pimple will gradually become smaller and eventually disappear, even though it may still secrete fluid or pus. However, if the spot on your gums persists for longer than 7 to 10 days after the treatment, you may have developed an infection or gum disease. If this is the case, you should contact your dentist or periodontist as soon as possible.

2. Gum infection or gum boil after root canal  

Swollen, painful gums can be brought on by a variety of circumstances. For example, swelling after root canal treatment might result from having food or dental floss caught between your teeth. Gum discomfort might also result from not flossing. Swollen gums can also be caused by pregnancy or an abscessed tooth.

Gum disease, or gingivitis, can develop due to inadequate brushing and flossing practices. In addition, periodontitis, a more severe condition that can result in tooth loss, can develop from this illness. A few medications may also cause your gums to swell.

3. Burning sensation

An affected region may feel warm or hot to the touch. Contact your dentist or endodontist immediately if you experience heat or a burning sensation in the area around your tooth and gums. An oral infection can sometimes cause symptoms similar to a burning mouth.

4. Feeling constantly tired

If you’re feeling lethargic after a root canal operation, you must take note of this and speak to your dentist about it. While it’s common to feel tired after the procedure, chronic lethargy can indicate a problem. Within a few days, your energy levels should return to normal. However, if you have an oral infection, the blood arteries that carry the disease to other regions of your body can impact other organs and leave you feeling exhausted.

If you continue feeling fatigued after a week or if the lethargy worsens, let your dentist know as this might indicate a hidden mouth infection.

4. Consistent pain

A few days of discomfort or soreness are normal following a root canal, but if the pain worsens or lasts longer than three days, it may indicate an infection. This is because the gums and bones are affected when the infection spreads from the tip of the root. After a root canal, you should visit a dentist straight away if you’re still in discomfort.

5. Fever

Fever is a common biological reaction when your immune system recognizes a troublesome microorganism and is an indication of infection. Contact your dentist as soon as possible if, following a root canal procedure, your fever is over 99.5 °F and accompanied by additional signs of a mouth infection.

6. Sore throat after root canal

Even though it’s rare, sore throats can sometimes develop after a prolonged surgery like a root canal and dental crown installation. Keeping the mouth open for a long time likely causes a dry throat. It’s expected that the procedure causes muscles to get stretched, which might cause throat soreness. 

Lastly, a dental procedure’s waste material might irritate the throat. 

These types of sore throats usually go away in a day or two. However, to avoid worsening your sickness or spreading germs, it is best to reschedule your dental visit if you know you have a viral or bacterial infection.

Conclusion

Therefore, it is crucial to inform your dentist about any pain, swelling, or increased sensitivity you may be feeling in the region where you had a root canal. You may have an infection if you experience these symptoms, and your dentist has advised a root canal. If so, your dentist may need to perform a root canal retreatment.

Related Posts