HomeAnswersDentistrysinusitisI underwent a root canal and apical surgery, but the pain persists in the cheek along with a headache. What could be causing this?

Could the persistent cheek pain be caused by the spread of infection through the sinuses?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At October 29, 2023
Reviewed AtOctober 29, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have undergone both a root canal and apical surgery, but the pain persists. Neither the original clinic nor a second-opinion root canal specialist can find any problem with the X-ray or the tooth. The pain is mainly located between the back molar and the affected tooth, and the area is sensitive to touch. Additionally, I experience cheek pain and headaches as a result. I have taken Ibuprofen and amoxicillin for infection when they occur. What could this be? Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Naveen Thomas

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

If, after repeating the root canal treatment, the pain and sensitivity persist, it might be related to the last tooth behind the treated tooth. You may have deep gingival pockets between these two teeth, causing sensitivity due to food particles touching the root of the last untreated tooth. So, it may be advisable to ask your dentist whether it can be treated as well to provide better relief.

Thanks and regards.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor for the reply,

There is no sensitivity in the last tooth, and when I floss between the two, it is clear that the treated tooth is the problem. I should not have any sensitivity in the treated tooth, right? Is there anything else it could be? Please suggest.

Answered by Dr. Naveen Thomas

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

A root canal-treated tooth does not have any nerves inside it, which can cause sensitivity. It is better to stop using floss there for a couple of weeks and instead use warm salt water gargle twice a day to allow the gums to heal. If food is getting stuck between those teeth, then there is indeed a large gap or gingival pockets. In this case, use interdental brushes to remove the food debris. Also, consider using desensitizing toothpaste to get relief from sensitivity.

Is there any pain when you push or press hard against the root canal-treated tooth? If there is still no relief, then it is advised to get root canal treatment done on the last tooth as sometimes it is difficult to understand which tooth is responsible for our discomfort.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor for the reply,

Yes, there is pain up in my cheek when I press on the treated tooth, and as I mentioned, I have been having headaches related to the tooth.

Answered by Dr. Naveen Thomas

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Along with the pain in your cheek and headache, do you have any congestion in your sinuses or inside your nose? There might be a slight chance of the spread of infection through the sinuses.

Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Naveen Thomas
Dr. Naveen Thomas

Dentistry

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