Root Canal Treatment: Concerns About Cotton and Lip Swelling

Root canal treatment

Doctor, I went to the dental clinic this morning for a root canal treatment.
After the procedure, there was a piece of cotton thread left in my mouth, and the dentist didn’t explain anything, just told me to come back for a filling.
I just pulled out the cotton thread, and some liquid came out.
Is this a concern? My upper lip is still swollen after taking medication.
When I visited the dentist today, I mentioned that my upper lip was swollen after taking the medication yesterday, and he gave me anesthesia for the root canal.
Is it normal for my lip to be swollen? Is there any relation to pulling out the cotton thread? What is a dental filling?

Qing Tian, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/06

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

It is likely that the tooth in question has previously undergone root canal treatment.
The original cotton wick was soaked in disinfectant and left inside the tooth's nerve for a period of time.
After redoing the root canal, the nerve was cleaned again, and a new medicated cotton pellet was placed.
However, since there is still inflammation in the periapical tissue, you may experience a swollen sensation in your lip.
It may require several visits to change the medication in the tooth's root canal repeatedly.
Once the root canal is thoroughly disinfected, the swelling sensation will subside.
After that, the root canal will be filled with medication, and the tooth will be restored with a crown for protection.

Reply Date: 2016/02/06

More Info

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure aimed at treating infection or damage to the pulp of a tooth. This treatment can alleviate pain and save the tooth from extraction. However, it can also lead to concerns, such as the presence of cotton (often referred to as cotton pellets) and swelling of the lips.

Understanding the Role of Cotton in Root Canal Treatment
During a root canal procedure, after the dentist removes the infected or damaged pulp, the empty space within the tooth is often filled with a temporary material to protect it until a permanent filling can be placed. Cotton pellets are commonly used as a temporary filling material. They help absorb any remaining fluids and provide a barrier to prevent bacteria from re-entering the tooth.
If you have pulled out the cotton and noticed fluid coming out, it could indicate that the tooth was still in the process of healing or that there was residual infection. It is crucial to contact your dentist immediately if you have removed the cotton, as this could compromise the treatment and lead to further complications.

Lip Swelling After Root Canal Treatment
Swelling of the lips or surrounding areas after a root canal procedure can occur for several reasons. It may be a normal reaction to the procedure itself, especially if local anesthesia was used. The injection of anesthetic can sometimes cause localized swelling. Additionally, if there was significant infection or inflammation prior to the treatment, this could also contribute to post-treatment swelling.

However, if the swelling persists or worsens, it could indicate an allergic reaction to the anesthetic, an infection, or a complication from the procedure. It is essential to monitor the swelling and report any concerning symptoms to your dentist.

What to Expect After Root Canal Treatment
After a root canal, it is common to experience some discomfort, swelling, or sensitivity in the treated area. Your dentist may prescribe pain relievers or antibiotics to help manage these symptoms. It is important to follow your dentist's post-operative care instructions, which may include:
1. Avoiding hard or chewy foods until the tooth is fully restored.

2. Taking prescribed medications as directed.

3. Maintaining good oral hygiene to prevent further infection.

The Importance of Follow-Up Care
The next step after a root canal is typically to place a permanent filling or crown on the tooth. This is crucial for restoring the tooth's function and preventing future issues. The temporary filling (cotton) should not be left in place for an extended period, as it is not designed to withstand the forces of chewing.

If you have concerns about the cotton or the swelling, it is advisable to schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist. They can assess the situation, ensure that the tooth is healing properly, and provide the necessary treatment to complete the restoration.

Conclusion
In summary, while the presence of cotton and lip swelling can be common after a root canal treatment, it is essential to communicate any concerns with your dentist. Removing the cotton prematurely may have implications for your healing process, and persistent swelling should be evaluated to rule out complications. Regular follow-up care is vital to ensure the success of the treatment and the longevity of the tooth. If you have any further questions or experience unusual symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to your dental care provider for guidance.

Similar Q&A

Managing Gum Swelling and Pain After Root Canal Treatment

Hello Doctor, I had a root canal treatment on my upper left molar over ten years ago, followed by a crown. In November 2019, I experienced inflammation and swelling, and after an X-ray, the doctor indicated there was pus inside, leading to a second root canal and a new crown. I...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: It is recommended that you continue to use 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash (three times a day). If the swelling and pain do not improve, you may first ask a local pharmacy abroad to prescribe 500mg Amoxicillin (take one every 4 to 6 hours) along with an NSAID for pain relief....

Post-Root Canal: Understanding Gum Swelling and Pain Management

Hello Doctor: Due to excessive force while eating, my canine tooth became loose, and I sought medical attention after experiencing gum swelling. The doctor informed me that there is already nerve necrosis and that I need root canal treatment. After the treatment, I was prescribed...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Excessive force during eating has led to loosened canine teeth and swollen gums. After consultation, due to nerve necrosis, root canal treatment was required. Two days post-treatment, the tooth still feels swollen, and there is pain upon palpation of the upper lip, which may indi...

Managing Swelling and Pus After Root Canal Treatment in Molars

Dear Doctor, I completed root canal treatment on my lower molar at the end of August this year and received a temporary crown (which has not been permanently fixed yet, as Dr. A mentioned it could not be removed during the last visit and suggested scheduling another appointment ...

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry
Dear child's mother: Hello! It is best to have an examination at a major hospital! It may require re-root canal treatment, or apicoectomy, or extraction! Take care! Wishing you all the best and smooth recovery! Sincerely, Dr. Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry.

Understanding Gum Swelling After Root Canal Treatment in Children

Hello Dr. Chiu, My son is nine years old and had a root canal treatment two years ago on a tooth near the lower left molar. A few days ago, the gums near that tooth became swollen. We visited the dentist, who drilled into the tooth but did not see any abscess. The dentist prescr...

Dr. Qiu Qiongyao reply Dentistry
1. It is recommended to perform an X-ray examination to determine whether the issue is related to the molars or the premolars. 2. There are two possible causes for gum swelling: one possibility is that it is caused by tooth decay, leading to food accumulation and subsequent gum ...