What Is Seen in This Case

The image shows a treated tooth with sutures placed on the surrounding gum tissue. The area appears reddened and swollen, indicating recent root canal–related surgical treatment or management of an infection at the root area. The presence of sutures suggests that the infection required surgical access, drainage, or gum repair.

This is a normal appearance shortly after treatment but requires close monitoring.

Most Likely Diagnosis

Based on visual examination, the most likely conditions include:

• Post–root canal infection management

• Surgical treatment of an infected tooth root

• Gum tissue sutured after abscess drainage

• Healing phase following endodontic surgery

At this stage, healing is expected but must be observed carefully.

What Causes Infection After Root Canal

Common causes include:

• Long-standing tooth infection before treatment

• Bacteria remaining at the root tip

• Cracks or leakage around the treated tooth

• Delayed treatment of a dental abscess

• Weak immune response or poor oral hygiene

Root infections sometimes require both root canal treatment and surgical support.

Is This a Serious Problem

Immediately after treatment, this condition is manageable and expected. However, if healing does not progress, it may scale up into:

• Persistent infection

• Continued swelling and pain

• Failure of the root canal treatment

• Bone infection around the tooth

• Need for retreatment or extraction

Follow-up care is essential.

Recommended Treatment Process

Immediate Post-Treatment Care (Days 1–3)

• Follow dentist instructions carefully

• Avoid disturbing sutures

• Take prescribed medications if provided

• Maintain gentle oral hygiene

Healing Phase (Days 4–7)

• Swelling and redness should gradually reduce

• Avoid chewing on the treated side

• Use salt water rinses only if advised

Re-evaluation Phase (Days 8–14)

• Sutures may be removed if required

• Pain should significantly improve

• X-ray follow-up may be planned

Expected Healing Time

• Soft tissue healing: 7–10 days

• Infection control: up to 14 days

• Bone healing continues for several weeks

Healing speed depends on infection severity and patient care.

What Happens If Healing Is Delayed

If delayed beyond 14 days, the risk increases for:

• Persistent abscess

• Bone infection

• Root canal failure

• Tooth loss

• Additional surgical procedures

Prompt dental review is required if symptoms worsen.

Home Care While Healing

These steps support recovery but do not replace professional care:

• Keep the area clean

• Avoid touching sutures with fingers or tongue

• Eat soft foods

• Avoid smoking and alcohol

Professional Comment

This case shows post-root canal surgical healing with sutures, commonly used to control deep infection. With proper follow-up and care, the prognosis is usually good.

Visit a Dental Clinic Near You

For post-treatment follow-up and infection monitoring, visit:
https://cebudentalimplants.com/map-dental-clinic