What should the patient do if swelling develops or worsens after RCT?

• A. Call emergency services
• B. Schedule a routine follow-up
• C. Contact student dentist
• D. Ignore symptoms

Answer: (C)

Swelling after a root canal can signal a developing infection or an inflammatory flare that needs professional evaluation, not just waiting it out. The best next step is to contact the student dentist who treated the tooth. They can assess the swelling, determine whether it’s a normal post-procedure response or something needing urgent care, and decide on the appropriate action—such as adjusting medications, providing drainage if needed, or referring to an endodontist or supervising clinician for further management. In a dental school setting, the student dentist is the appropriate first point of contact because they’re familiar with the case and can arrange timely care.

Routine follow-up isn’t suitable when swelling is present, since that implies a potential complication that warrants prompt attention. Emergency services are reserved for life-threatening situations or signs of systemic illness, such as difficulty breathing or severe spreading infection. Ignoring swelling is unsafe because infections can worsen and spread. If swelling is accompanied by fever, increasing facial rigor, or difficulty breathing, seek urgent care through the proper clinical channels or emergency services.