HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

What Causes Painful Swelling In The Gums After Root Canal Treatment?

HI There, I had a root canal done yesterday and I am in a lot of pain as my gums are swollen. I've been taking Ibuprofin 400mg as I am hoping that will bring down the inflammation, however it has only ameliorated the pain to an extent. My doctor prescribed Tylenol 3 (with Codine), however I haven't taken that yet as I am more worried about the inflammation. Tylenol extra strength didn't do anything for me. Can you please tell me if gum swelling post root canal is normal and how long it might take to go away. Also whats the best way to reduce the swelling and hence the pain?
Thu, 24 Aug 2017
Report Abuse
Dentist,  's  Response
Hi..
Thanks for the query..

Gum swelling post root canal treatment is not a normal finding and is indicative of infection in the tooth that is still lingering..

Taking painkillers alone will not provide you permanent resolution of the problem.

You should consult an Endodontist and get evaluated and an x ray of the tooth should be done..

In case if there is infection then a course of antibiotics like Augmentin [Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium] and anti inflammatory painkiller like Ibuprofen will be advised to you to resolve the infection along with a localised cleaning of the gum..

In case if it still does not get better then the root canal treated tooth has to be cleaned again and refilled..

Hope this helps..

Regards..
I find this answer helpful
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 
Loading Online Doctors....
What Causes Painful Swelling In The Gums After Root Canal Treatment?

Hi.. Thanks for the query.. Gum swelling post root canal treatment is not a normal finding and is indicative of infection in the tooth that is still lingering.. Taking painkillers alone will not provide you permanent resolution of the problem. You should consult an Endodontist and get evaluated and an x ray of the tooth should be done.. In case if there is infection then a course of antibiotics like Augmentin [Amoxicillin and Clavulanate Potassium] and anti inflammatory painkiller like Ibuprofen will be advised to you to resolve the infection along with a localised cleaning of the gum.. In case if it still does not get better then the root canal treated tooth has to be cleaned again and refilled.. Hope this helps.. Regards..