We all were scared of root canals at some point. However, despite its bad reputation, root canals are a safe and common procedure for people who need the inner layer of their tooth repaired.
Even though it is incredibly rare for complications to occur after the procedure, you can still get an infection after a root canal. Being aware of the warning signs can help you handle the situation properly.
What is a Root Canal Treatment?
A root canal is an endodontic treatment that focuses on repairing any internal damage to your tooth. It involves the removal of the infected pulp and cleaning of the root canals, which can eliminate the source of pain and preserve the tooth’s root.
The dentist removes the gap and seals the region to prevent infection. They may also place a crown on the top of the tooth to protect it further if necessary.
Signs You Have Infection After a Root Canal
Once you have undergone a root canal procedure, it is important that you keep an eye out for any signs of an infection. Early prevention can save you from further damage. While the occurrence of an infection is rare, here are a few signs to help you identify an infection after a root canal procedure:
Dental Abscess
Infected tissue is indicated by an abscess on the gums next to the affected tooth. If an abscess present before your root canal does not go away within 7 to 10 days, the infection may not have been fully eradicated.
Persistent Pain
If you have a small amount of pain after a root canal, don’t worry because it’s common. However, severe toothache may indicate a serious issue. So, if your treated region hurts, particularly when biting down or consuming something cold, it’s probably reinfected. An infection pain is persistent and spreads from the root tip to your gums and jaw.
Bad Breath
You may not notice it at first, but chronic bad breath is a common sign of oral infection. So, if you are cleaning your teeth thoroughly and it’s still not making the foul breath go away, it is possible that your root canal has failed.
Tips to Prevent Root Canal Infection
Root canal infection can be scary and quite a painful thing to experience. You can avoid the infection with the help of the following tips:
- Brushing and flossing at least twice a day.
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash for the first few days after the treatment.
- Take over-the-counter medicines recommended by your dentist to treat soreness and swelling after the procedure.
Summing Up!
When it comes to providing the finest repair for any internal tooth damage, a root canal serves as a savior. It’s a common and successful procedure. However, like any other treatment, there are risks of root canal failure or the occurrence of infection after the procedure.
Being aware of the signs of infection after a root canal can help you handle the situation wisely. If you require further assistance, schedule a consultation with the expert dental team at Smile 360 Family Dentistry. You can contact us by calling at (909) 980-4878.