Tooth abscess - swelling on day 4 after working on it--normal?!
Question: I had a 15-year root canal fail and had an abscess at the root tip, with almost no symptoms.
4 days ago, the endo unpacked, cleaned and repacked the tooth with antiseptic and antibiotics. I wasn't given antibiotics until the next day when I called with severe pain, but no visible swelling.
Two more days of excruciating pain, dr. prescribed steroids yesterday.
Now this evening, some significant swelling is developing on the underside of the upper lip and under the skin in cheek by nose.
Is this normal, even with antibiotics after three days and steroids for two? What to expect in days to come? Should I call dentist for emergency visit tomorrow (Monday)? Or will it play itself out?
Answers: I had a 15-year root canal fail and had an abscess at the root tip, with almost no symptoms.
4 days ago, the endo unpacked, cleaned and repacked the tooth with antiseptic and antibiotics. I wasn't given antibiotics until the next day when I called with severe pain, but no visible swelling.
Two more days of excruciating pain, dr. prescribed steroids yesterday.
Now this evening, some significant swelling is developing on the underside of the upper lip and under the skin in cheek by nose.
Is this normal, even with antibiotics after three days and steroids for two? What to expect in days to come? Should I call dentist for emergency visit tomorrow (Monday)? Or will it play itself out?
DH just had one. Swelling should go down in 5 to 7 days if taking antibiotics. But if gets worse in size, go back again. Pain should also be under control. Keep your endo abreast.
I say enough suffering and call the dentist. The swelling and pain suggest that something isn't right, antibiotics or not. If it were me, I would even consider calling your dentist's answering service and seeing if you couldn't make contact now. Put the trouble back in the dentist's hands, and at the very least maybe you can get something to make matters more bearable.
Go back to the dentist. Is this an endodontist doing the work? Hopefully so. Sounds like the tooth needs to be opened up again, cleaned out and re-medicated. It should also be taken out of occlusion so that you're not pounding on it every time you bite down. Whatever you do, get to the doctor as soon as possible. There is absolutely no reason to be experiencing this much discomfort. Perhaps they will need to change your antibiotic. Amoxicillan is the most helpful for dental abscesses.