Table of Contents
Introduction
Removal of infected or inflamed pulp from the inside of a tooth is called root canal therapy. However, like any other dental procedure, root canal can also have some side effects, such as swelling on the face. Swelling on face after root canal is not uncommon, but it can be alarming and uncomfortable. In this article, I will explain what causes swelling, how long it lasts, how to reduce it.
What Causes Swelling On Face After Root Canal?
There can be many causes for a swollen face after a root canal such as:
1. Inflammation:
The natural response of the body toward injury or infection is to send more blood and immune cells to the affected area. This causes inflammation, which can result in swelling, redness, heat, and pain. During the root canal, the dentist creates an opening in the tooth and removes the infected or dead pulp. This can trigger an inflammatory response in the surrounding tissues, leading to swelling on the face.
2. Infection:
Sometimes, it’s not possible to remove all the bacteria from the tooth or the surrounding tissues during a root canal procedure. This can cause a persistent or recurrent infection, which can also cause swelling on the face. Infection can also occur if the root canal is not properly sealed or if the patient does not follow the post-op instructions, such as taking antibiotics, avoiding certain foods, and maintaining good oral hygiene.
3. Allergic reaction:
Some patients may be allergic to the materials or medications used during or after the root canal procedure, such as the local anesthetic, the filling material, the disinfectant, or the antibiotics. This can cause an allergic reaction, which can manifest as swelling on the face.
How Long Does Swelling Last After Root Canal?
The duration of swelling on the face after RCT depends on the severity and the cause of the swelling. Generally, mild to moderate swelling may last for a few days to a week, and gradually subside as the healing process progresses. However, severe or persistent swelling may indicate a complication, such as infection or allergic reaction, and may require immediate medical attention.
How To Reduce Swelling After Root Canal?
There are some steps that can help reduce swelling on the face after a root canal, such as:
1. Applying ice packs:
- Ice packs can help reduce inflammation and pain by constricting the blood vessels and numbing the nerves.
- Apply ice packs to the swollen area for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, several times a day, for the first 48 hours after the root canal procedure.
- Do not apply ice directly to the skin, use a towel or a cloth.
- Avoid applying heat, as it can worsen the swelling and inflammation.
2. Anti-inflammatory drugs:
- Drugs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help reduce swelling and pain by blocking the production of inflammatory mediators.
- Take the recommended dose as directed by your dentist, and do not exceed the maximum daily limit.
- Avoid taking aspirin, as it can increase the risk of bleeding.
- If you are allergic or intolerant to any of these drugs, consult your dentist for alternatives.
3. Elevating your head:
- Elevating your head can help reduce swelling by facilitating the drainage of fluid and blood from the face.
- Use extra pillows or cushions to raise your head when lying down or sleeping, especially for the first few nights after the root canal procedure.
4. Warm Saline Rinses:
- Salt water can help reduce swelling and infection by creating an osmotic pressure that draws out fluid and bacteria from the tissues.
- Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, and rinse your mouth gently with it for a few seconds, several times a day, especially after meals and before bed.
- Do not swallow the salt water, and do not rinse vigorously, as it can dislodge the temporary filling or the blood clot.
Post-Treatment Instructions
Following the post-treatment instructions given by your dentist can help prevent or reduce swelling and other complications after root canal. Some of the common instructions include:
- Avoid eating or drinking anything until the numbness wears off, as you may bite or burn your tongue, cheek, or lip.
- Avoid chewing or biting on the treated tooth until it is fully restored with a permanent filling or a crown, as it may fracture or become reinfected.
- Avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that may damage the treated tooth or the temporary filling.
- Brush and floss your teeth gently, but thoroughly, and avoid the treated tooth until it is healed.
- Take the prescribed antibiotics and painkillers as directed by your dentist, and complete the full course of antibiotics, even if the symptoms improve.
- Contact your dentist if you experience any signs of infection, such as fever, pus, foul smell, or increased swelling or pain.
When to Seek Professional Help
Swelling on the face after a root canal is usually normal and temporary, and can be managed with home remedies and medications. However, if the swelling is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, difficulty breathing, rash, or severe pain, it may indicate a serious complication, such as infection or allergic reaction, and may require professional help. Contact your dentist or doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Swelling that does not improve or worsens after a week
- Swelling that spreads to other parts of the face, neck, or body
- Swelling that interferes with your vision, speech, or swallowing
- Swelling that is warm, tender, or discolored
- Fever above 100.4°F or 38°C
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Rash, hives, or itching
- Severe pain that does not respond to painkillers
- Bleeding or oozing from the treated tooth or the gums
- Loose or broken temporary filling or crown
Conclusion
Experiencing swelling on the face after a root canal can be concerning, but in most cases, it’s a temporary and manageable side effect of the procedure. Following proper post-operative instructions and knowing when to seek professional help can ensure a smooth recovery after a root canal and a successful outcome. Remember, your dentist is your best resource for addressing any concerns or complications that may arise during the healing process.
