AboutGary Backlund, DMD, MSD Expertise I am an Endodontist ( root canal specialist ) and can answer questions about root canals and their treatment. I cannot diagnose or treat online, but can answer general questions. I have been a specialist for 25 years and am Past President of the Washington State Association of Endodontists.
Experience 25 years practicing as a specialist
Organizations American Association of Endodonists, Past President Washington State Association of Endodontists.
Expert: Gary Backlund, DMD, MSD Date: 7/7/2008 Subject: small bump and some pain after root canal
Question I had a root canal on #4 tooth 5 days ago. The root had died by the time I had the procedure with very little pain. The root was damaged because tooth was fractured. The dentist found two canals and filed and filled them. I am allergic to most antibiotics so we agreed that I would only take the hard core antibiotics if the pain got worse. The pain was pretty consistent for the first 3 days, sore, and hurt if chew (dentist had filed down the tooth so it wouldn't touch normally). On fourth day pain was better. Today pain is better still, though still hurts when I tap the teeth together, but now there is a small painful-to-the-touch bump over the tooth NEXT to the one that had to root canal (further back), where the gum meets the cheek. Could this be an infection? I have no fever and no other swelling. No throbbing pain. Is it possible that this is part of the healing process or that it is where the novocaine was administered? Thank you.
Answer Hi Paulina,
I'm sorry to hear you have all this going on. Yes, the bump is most likely a localized infection as a result of your root canal. It is a fairly common post op problem. Usually a few days of an antibiotic will resolve it quickly, but since you can't take antibiotics, it will probably take longer to resolve. I would certainly call your dentist and tell him/her what is going on. Since I can't exam you, I can only answer based on what normally ocurs.
