Expert: Gary Backlund, DMD, MSD - 7/2/2009

Question
I had a root canal on my upper front tooth day before yesterday. I was fine afterwards but since yesterday my tooth has been hurting. It is excruciating when my tooth accidentally hits the lower one while eating. I can also sense a bit of swelling on the gum even though it is not visible on the outside. When I am not eating the pain is bearable with 600 mg ibuprofen. He gave me a prescription for Clindamycin which I started taking as soon as the procedure was done. He has also given me vicodin which I avoid because I don't like the way it makes me feel. The problem is I can't see the dentist again for the next 10 days or so since I am going out of town.I want to know if these symptoms indicate an infection or is this expected after a root canal is done? How long does the pain take to subside? Thank you.

Answer
Hi Kassie,

I'm sorry your having this problem. It does sound like you might have a post op infection since there is some swelling, The Clindamycin should work, but it takes 24-48 hours to get started and probably 3-4 days before you will really feel better. We sometimes see this kind of flare up after treatment which is what gives root canals their bad name.

Hope this helps.

Gary Backlund DMD, MSD