If you’ve recently looked in the bathroom mirror and noticed that your face seems swollen, you might be unsure about how to proceed. Our bodies become injured and swollen from time to time—so how do you know when visiting your emergency dentist for facial swelling is necessary? Here’s more about what causes this type of inflammation and why it isn’t something that you should ignore.
What Causes Facial Swelling?
Inflammation is one of the ways that your body responds to injury—and when your face becomes swollen, there can be a variety of causes. Sometimes it is a reaction to allergies or a response to an infection of the salivary glands or the sinuses. Other times, it’s a reaction to certain dental treatments such as orthodontics, tooth extractions, or implant surgery.
It can also result from an abscessed tooth, which occurs when bacteria enter the pulp of the tooth and cause an infection. Eventually, this infection can spread throughout the face (causing it to swell) and the rest of the body. These types of infections are serious and often quite uncomfortable—and they will only continue to worsen without professional care.
When Should I See My Emergency Dentist?
It’s worth noting that not every instance of facial swelling necessitates an emergency dental visit; minor or infrequent swelling usually doesn’t require treatment. If your discomfort is due to dental trauma or a mild allergic reaction, you might be able to address it at home with over-the-counter pain medication or a cold compress. However, if the issue persists or worsens after a few days, it’s in your best interest to seek care. If the source of the inflammation is an infection, impacted tooth, dental abscess, or something else serious, it will need to be treated right away. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact your emergency dentist:
- Persistent swelling that lasts for several days.
- Chronic mouth pain.
- Bumps on your gums.
- You haven’t had your wisdom teeth extracted (their eruption can cause inflammation and discomfort).
In some instances, you might experience dental trauma that requires you to visit the emergency room. Such injuries include things like jaw fractures, jaw dislocations, serious cuts and lacerations to the face and mouth, or abscesses/infections that are so swollen they’re impacting your ability to breathe or swallow.
The cause of facial swelling isn’t always obvious; however, seeking care from your emergency dentist upon experiencing severe symptoms will ensure that the problem isn’t allowed to progress and further threaten your oral health.
About the Practice
South Ridge Dental has proudly served patients and families in the Lincoln area under the leadership of Dr. Ryan Shaffer and Dr. Steven Shaffer. The practice is pleased to offer a wide range of services including emergency dentistry. If you or a loved one is suffering from facial swelling, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment: (402) 423-1616.