Dealing with facial swelling is never a walk in the park, especially when it involves your mouth or jaw area. While some instances of facial swelling may resolve on their own, others may be a sign of a dental emergency. Knowing the difference is important to keeping your oral and systemic health in check. But how do you know when it’s time to see your emergency dentist?
Read on to learn several reasons for facial swelling and find out which ones should prompt an emergency dental visit.
1. SINUS INFECTIONS
Facial swelling can be a symptom of sinus infections (sinusitis) which occur when the sinuses become inflamed due to infection. Sinus infections can cause pressure and discomfort in the face, along with swelling around the eyes, cheeks, or forehead. While unpleasant, most sinus infections can be treated with saline rinses and generic pain relievers to combat discomfort.
2. ALLERGIC REACTIONS
In some cases, facial swelling may be a symptom of an allergic reaction. While not always serious, severe reactions, known as anaphylaxis, require immediate medical treatment. Here are some symptoms of anaphylaxis to look for:
- Difficulty breathing
- Facial swelling
- A red, itchy, and bumpy rash—hives
- Itching due to histamines
- Loss of consciousness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Increased heart rate
- Sudden drops in blood pressure
3. DENTAL INFECTIONS
Dental infections, such as abscesses or cellulitis, occur when bacteria invade the tooth or surrounding gums or bone. These infections can cause inflammation and swelling in the affected area, which leads to pain and potential complications if untreated. If you experience sudden or severe facial swelling, especially with fever or difficulty breathing, head to your dentist as soon as possible.
4. FACIAL INJURIES
Facial trauma or injury, like a fractured tooth or broken nose, can also result in facial swelling. Traumatic injuries to the face can disrupt the delicate structures of the mouth and surrounding tissues, leading to inflammation and swelling. In cases of dental trauma, a quick evaluation by an emergency dentist is necessary to assess the extent of the injury and prevent further complications.
5. UNDERLYING DENTAL CONDITIONS
Dental conditions, like periodontal disease or impacted teeth, can also cause facial swelling over time. These conditions often cause inflammation and infection in the gums or underlying bone, causing swelling in the face or jaw. While not always considered a dental emergency, if the swelling gets worse or causes pain, you should see your dentist.
Facial swelling can indicate multiple dental issues ranging from infections to traumatic injuries. Now that you have a good idea of what to look for, you can get help when you need it. If you experience worrying symptoms of facial swelling, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist for an emergency dental appointment!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Are you experiencing pain or facial swelling in the Aubrey area? Dr. Landon Nguyen at Healthy Crowns Dentistry provides same-day emergency dentistry. He’s a trusted dentist for his knowledge, skills, and friendly demeanor. Dr. Nguyen earned his dental degree at the New York University College of Dentistry. Since then, he has continued to expand his services through top-notch continuing education opportunities like the UCLA Endodontic Continuum. Call (940) 241-9993 to schedule an emergency dental appointment or visit the website to browse other services.