Should I Still Have Pain After a Tooth Extraction?

Posted by AllSmiles

In March, my dentist extracted a broken upper right root canal tooth. She cut the tooth in sections for easier removal. I still have pain in the side of my face every evening. I have some numbness on the right side of my face and occasional earaches. My dentist prescribed a pain reliever, but it didn’t help. Is there something my dentist is missing?

Tami,

Pain after an extraction should not linger longer than a week. If you have felt pain since March, something is wrong.

What Causes Lingering Pain After Tooth Extraction?

A dry socket or an infection is the most frequent cause of lingering pain after a tooth extraction. A dentist would need to examine the extraction site and take an X-ray to identify the cause of your discomfort.

• Dry socket – When the blood clot at the extraction site dislodges, it exposes nerves and causes intense pain.
• Infection – Bacteria can enter the extraction site and cause inflammation and pain.

Antibiotics for Lingering Pain

Antibiotics can help treat an infection. Pain from an extraction can transfer into your jaw or other teeth. However, your mouth should not feel numb.

What to expect—A strong antibiotic like clindamycin can treat the infection. Use the medication as directed to prevent a recurring infection.

Get a Second Opinion If Necessary

If you want a second opinion, please see a dentist promptly. Otherwise, the infection will continue to spread to other teeth, the supporting bone, and possibly into your bloodstream.

Rocky Hill, Connecticut, cosmetic dentist Dr. Thaddeus Michalski sponsors this post. Read how he strives to provide patients with some of the best dental care in Rocky Hill.