I am a 20 year old female and had a root canal. could a spread dental infection cause tingling in the cheek, near the infected tooth and on tongue and lips?

Paresthesia: It is more likely a nerve condition. This can occur during the numbing procedure or is less possible during the root canal procedure. It usually slowly goes away, but if it persists with no change you should see a specialist.

Allergic reaction?: In addition to the possibility of a lingering paresthesia from the anesthetic you received with the root canal treatment, there is also the possibility that you have had a reaction to a topical anesthetic used during the procedure or a reaction to the latex used in the rubber dam placed around your tooth!

See your dentist: Tooth infections do not spread from one tooth to another. However other oral infections may have a more widespread presentation. It would be best to see your dentist to further evaluate your condition. Best not to wait and let it get worse, call today. Good luck -.

Yes: Some teeth are near areas where an infection can affect a neighboring nerve. This is especially the case in lower premolars where a nerve provides sensation to the lower lip. Your root canal treated tooth should be evaluated for a possible recurrence of infection by a general dentist or endodontist.