Should I See an Emergency Dentist for Facial Swelling?

You roll out of bed one morning, head to the bathroom to brush your teeth, and come to an unfortunate realization when you look in the mirror – your face is swollen! If you’re not experiencing discomfort, you might be unsure whether it necessitates medical attention. However, facial swelling is one strong indicator that you should contact emergency services right away. Read on to learn what causes swelling, when you should see a dentist, and what you can expect during your visit.

What Causes Facial Swelling?

There are several reasons why someone may be experiencing facial swelling, most of them warranting immediate treatment. Your dentist will assess your symptoms against the following possible causes to determine the source.

Tooth Abscess

An abscess occurs when bacteria enter the tooth pulp, causing an infection that is typically accompanied by a pocket of pus. That can happen if you have a cracked tooth or large cavity that hasn’t been treated. Aside from swelling, people may experience significant discomfort, fever, tooth sensitivity, and a bitter taste in the mouth.

Salivary Gland Infection

The salivary glands, known as the parotid glands, are located in the cheeks. When they become infected, they tend to swell and cause extreme pain. Most infections are caused by bacteria, although it could also result from decreased saliva production. Depending on the reason, your dentist may refer you to another medical professional, such as an ear, nose, and throat doctor.

When Should I See a Dentist?

If you’re only experiencing minor or infrequent swelling, then you may be able to hold off seeking treatment until your next appointment. However, contact your emergency dentist right away if you experience any of the following:

• Persistent swelling
• Pain that does not improve after two to three days
• Worsening pain that causes other problems (i.e., headaches or migraines)

What to Expect During an Emergency Visit

At your appointment, your dentist will perform an oral evaluation, diagnose your needs and provide prompt relief. They may even take x-rays to get more insight into your oral health. If you have an abscessed tooth, your dentist will remove the bacteria, clean the affected area, and place a crown over the damaged tooth to prevent further infection. If you have a salivary gland infection, they may prescribe an antibiotic or remove part of the glands if necessary.

Don’t take facial swelling and discomfort lightly. If you go too long without treatment, it can lead to more serious issues and become life-threatening. When in doubt, contact your emergency dentist – it’s better to be safe than sorry!

About the Practice

Our team at Region Dental believes in the power of gentle, personalized, and compassionate dental care. If you’re experiencing facial swelling, we offer same-day emergency care as well as sedation dentistry to help alleviate your discomfort. Whether it’s morning or evening, we’ll be here when you need it most. Visit our website or call (219) 362-8980 to schedule an emergency visit.