Is Facial Swelling a Reason to See an Emergency Dentist?
You wake and something just doesn’t feel right. When you get in front of the bathroom mirror – what the heck?! Your face is swollen and uncomfortable. Without knowing why it happened, you can’t help but worry.
It’s a smart call to contact your emergency dentist for facial swelling because you need to rule out any serious issues. Keep reading to learn potential causes of the swelling, why you would need to see your dentist, and what to expect during the examination.
What are Likely Causes of My Facial Swelling?
Facial swelling could occur for several reasons and most of them would warrant you seeking an exam sooner rather than later. Here are a couple of potential causes your emergency dentist will investigate:
- Salivary gland infection: Located in the cheeks, salivary glands can swell and cause significant pain if they become infected. It could occur due to bacteria or decreased saliva production. Your dentist may refer you to an ear, nose, and throat doctor depending on the reason.
- Tooth abscess: In this case, bacteria enter the tooth pulp and cause an infection. If it stays untreated, it can spread throughout the face and other parts of the body. Other symptoms may include a bitter taste in the mouth, tooth sensitivity, or fever.
Why Should I See My Dentist If My Face is Swollen?
You don’t need to be told to see your dentist when you are having problems with your teeth and gums. But when your face is involved, your dentist might not be the most obvious answer. If you ever experience swelling around your face, mouth, or gums, it is advisable for you to see your emergency dentist. Underlying oral health issues could be involved, which necessitates your dentist to assess your symptoms and develop a treatment plan.
Schedule an appointment right away if you experience persistent swelling, pain that doesn’t go away after 2-3 days, or if the discomfort worsens to cause other issues like headaches.
What Happens When I See My Emergency Dentist?
At your appointment, your dentist can assess your symptoms, evaluate your needs, and plan the best course of treatment. If you have an abscessed tooth, they can remove the bacteria and clean the area, then place a crown over the damaged tooth to prevent further infection. If you have a salivary gland infection, treatment could range from a prescribed antibiotic to the removal of part of the glands.
Whatever you do, don’t disregard facial swelling. Contact your emergency dentist and make an appointment. Being proactive about the situation can help you avoid a potentially severe, life-threatening complication.
About the Author
Dr. Sowmya Kumar earned her dental doctorate at the University of Florida College of Dentistry, and she’s lived in Brevard County for the past 20 years. From a family of teachers, Dr. Kumar is a lifelong learner and regularly participates in advanced training courses while also contributing to academic journals and various research papers. Should you feel the need for an emergency dentist for facial swelling or another reason, at Premier Walk-In Dental you can be seen in the evening and on Fridays, same-day appointments are available, and as the name implies, walk-ins are welcomed. To learn more, visit her website or call (321) 631-4334.