Why Do I Have Pain Weeks After a Tooth Extraction?

Last month, my dentist sectioned my upper right molar into three pieces before extracting it. It was a fractured root canal tooth that the dentist couldn’t save. Since the extraction, I’ve had late afternoon and evening pain that ibuprofen doesn’t relieve. I feel pain on the side of my face, too. It throbs into my ear. My dentist said that if it persists, she can prescribe an antibiotic. Shouldn’t she try to figure out the cause instead of just prescribing meds? Thanks. Avery from NV

Avery,

It’s normal to experience discomfort after a tooth extraction for about a week. However, if the pain persists and worsens, especially for weeks, see a dentist.

What Causes Persistent Pain After Tooth Extraction?

A latent infection in the extraction site is one potential cause of persistent pain after a tooth extraction. An infection may require antibiotic treatment.

Another potential cause could be pain from an adjacent tooth or a nerve. In your case, the numbness you’re experiencing might indicate pressure on a nerve.

Schedule an Exam and X-ray

We recommend scheduling a follow-up appointment with your dentist to assess the situation. She can examine and x-ray the area, rule out any potential complications, and recommend appropriate treatment.

If your dentist determines you have an infection, an antibiotic like clindamycin may help. Take all the medication as prescribed to prevent a recurring infection. If you are considering tooth replacement and want a dental implant, notify your dentist so that she can create a treatment plan for an implant.

Dr. Thaddeus Michalski, a Rocky Hill, Connecticut dentist and Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, sponsors this post. Read how he strives to provide some of the best dental care in Rocky Hill.

 

Should I Still Have Pain After a Tooth Extraction?

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.