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What Causes Jaw Pain After A Root Canal?
Question: My husband had a root canal done (2 steps). After the second procedure, he experienced jaw pain when he tried to open his mouth wide enough to eat. He also developed a bruise on the lower jaw. He has been eating only soft foods, opening his mouth only as wide as necessary. He's also applied an ice pack throughout the day, which has helped reduce the swelling. Other than the soft diet and ice pack, what can he do to restore normal eating without pain, since that's the only time he has discomfort? And how long can we expect for the healing to occur.
Brief Answer:
Injections may cause bruising. Antibiotics heal.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I recommend antibiotics along with root canal therapy if there is swelling or pain persists. You can try acetaminophen or ibuprofen as an anti-inflammatory medication to help reduce swelling and restore function. Contact your dentist for a prescription for an antibiotic if the swelling does not decrease. The bruising on the jaw may be from the injection of the local anesthesia especially if a lower nerve block and repeat injections were required. There may be some blood leakage that needs to be absobed and this will take time to heal. Be patient and do not stress the area. Please continue to avoid chewing near the root canal tooth until it is restored with a restoration to prevent fracture. Continuing a softer diet is recommended.
Thank you for your inquiry. I am available to assist you further if you have additional questions or details to provide.
Injections may cause bruising. Antibiotics heal.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I recommend antibiotics along with root canal therapy if there is swelling or pain persists. You can try acetaminophen or ibuprofen as an anti-inflammatory medication to help reduce swelling and restore function. Contact your dentist for a prescription for an antibiotic if the swelling does not decrease. The bruising on the jaw may be from the injection of the local anesthesia especially if a lower nerve block and repeat injections were required. There may be some blood leakage that needs to be absobed and this will take time to heal. Be patient and do not stress the area. Please continue to avoid chewing near the root canal tooth until it is restored with a restoration to prevent fracture. Continuing a softer diet is recommended.
Thank you for your inquiry. I am available to assist you further if you have additional questions or details to provide.
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
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