Differential Diagnosis for Post-Root Canal Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Incomplete healing or normal post-procedure sensitivity: This is a common occurrence after a root canal, where the tooth and surrounding tissues may take time to heal completely, leading to lingering pain or sensitivity.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Failed root canal: The root canal procedure might not have been fully successful, leading to persistent infection or inflammation within the tooth.
- New cavity or fracture: A new cavity or fracture in the tooth that underwent the root canal could cause pain, especially if it exposes the pulp or reaches the nerve of an adjacent tooth.
- Gum disease or periodontal pocket: Inflammation or infection of the gums around the tooth that had the root canal could cause pain.
- Sinusitis: Since the roots of upper teeth are close to the sinuses, sinus infections can cause referred pain to the upper teeth, including those that have had a root canal.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Abscess or spreading infection: An abscess or infection that spreads from the tooth to other parts of the face or skull can be life-threatening and requires immediate attention.
- Osteomyelitis: A bone infection that can occur after a dental procedure, which, although rare, can be serious and requires prompt treatment.
- Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can spread rapidly and requires immediate antibiotic treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Nerve damage: During the root canal procedure, the surrounding nerves might have been damaged, leading to pain or altered sensation.
- Cement or material allergy: A rare allergic reaction to the materials used in the root canal, such as the filling material or cement.
- Cracked root: A crack in the root of the tooth that can be difficult to diagnose and may require advanced imaging techniques.
- Maxillary sinus pathology: Pathologies within the maxillary sinus, such as a tumor or cyst, that can cause pain referred to the upper teeth.