Injuries, new medicines, and dietary allergies are all potential causes of facial swelling. A high salt diet or excessive alcohol consumption can also cause it. However, face swelling is a frequent reaction to a severe bacterial illness. It is associated with a tooth abscess, a type of dental emergency. Continue reading to understand when to see our dentists for assistance and get emergency dental care.
Face swelling – what can be the cause?
Facial swelling is a typical indication of a variety of dental problems, with causes ranging from minor traumas to major infections or underlying medical diseases.
Facial swelling is often caused by inflammation in the afflicted region and can appear abruptly or gradually. Abscessed teeth are a typical cause of face swelling. Other reasons for face swelling, such as a sinus infection or an allergic response, are not always connected to dental disorders.
Knowing whether to seek emergency dental treatment for face swelling might be difficult, but it is critical to recognize the warning symptoms. In rare circumstances, face swelling might indicate a significant tooth problem that needs quick care from a dentist. Delaying treatment for dental crises can result in serious problems, some of which are life-threatening.
Symptoms of tooth abscesses
Facial swelling is one of the signs of a dental abscess. This pus pocket is the result of a bacterial infection. It might be related to an accident, an untreated cavity, or past dental work. Symptoms of an abscessed tooth are:
- Sensitivity to extreme temperatures
- Severe, throbbing, and constant toothache
- Swelling in your face or cheek
- Difficulty swallowing (can also indicate a severe allergic reaction)
- Swollen and/or sore lymph nodes
- Fever
- Foul-tasting discharge in your mouth followed by a decrease in pain
The last symptom might suggest that the abscess has erupted. However, you are not safe if this occurs. The illness might still spread. It can even escalate into a potentially fatal problem. It is critical to get quick dental treatment to cure the infection.
What to expect during an emergency dental visit?
When you have a dental emergency, such as face swelling, you should visit an emergency dentist at once. Delays in treatment might lead to additional consequences such as extreme pain, infection, or even tooth loss.
The dentist or hygienist will check your teeth and gums and may take X-rays to assess the issue. They will then go over their results with you and explain the measures to take to solve the problem.
Depending on the circumstances, the dentist may prescribe emergency treatment. This may involve filling a cavity, cleansing an infected region, or removing a tooth.
In certain situations, you may need to make a follow-up visit to obtain treatment. So do not waste any time, and visit your dentist today.