post root canal pain when shaking head

[leelaw]

One month ago an abscess was detected in my lower jaw, the presenting symptoms were strong pain when I shook my head sideways, and sensitivity when flossing down the sides of my front molar.  I had a root canal, and took 10 days amoxyxillin.  The pain never fully subsided but diminished. One week ago the motion pain came back strongly and seemed to spread up towards my ear. The flossing pain has come back.  My dentist is on holiday for 10 days and prescribed me a new antibiotic and steroids to help reduce the inflammation. A doctor examined my ear canal and it is fine.
Are these symptoms familiar to anyone?  Is there a cause beyond residual infection that I need to get treated?
Thanks for any help, Leela

[leelaw]

Thanks Gellia, useful information. All the best, leela

[Gellia]

Hi,
Yes, the antibiotics and steroids could mask the real problem, esp if it's a crack in the tooth.  If that is the case the pain will return.  If the antibiotics don't take care of the problem if it's residual nerve infection, the infection will return also.  

Unfortunately, a tooth fracture or infection is a hazard of any dental work with or without a root canal.  The mouth is full of bacteria and if there is a small tooth fracture it will find a way to cause pain.  The tooth moves in opposition and stretches the periodontal ligament, and that can be quite painful.

I urge you to get it checked ASAP.  It may be a RC that needs retreatment or if a fracture, possible extraction.

GOOD LUCK and I hope you are totally pain free soon.
Best to you,
Gellia

[leelaw]

Thanks Gellia,
3 days into the antibiotics and steroids my pain has gone.  Would this be possible if the cause was a fracture or nerve tissue remaining?

My limited medical knowledge tells me I had a recurring infection, what else?  Unfortunately I am a visitor in town and will be gone by the time my dentist returns, I am curious to know whether it would be the original dentist's responsibility to fix the problem.

Help appreciated, thanks
leela

[Gellia]

Hi,
If a similar pain is returning, it's possible that the tooth has become fractured, or there was a residual nerve fragment left behind and needs retreatment.  

I'd have an appt to have it checked the minute your dentist returns.  

GOOD LUCK and do let us know how you are.
My very best to you,
Gellia