Facial swelling is never something to ignore, especially when it’s related to a dental issue. While swelling can sometimes result from something minor like a small injury or irritation, it can also be a sign of a serious underlying problem, such as an infection or abscessed tooth. If you’re experiencing facial swelling along with oral discomfort, you may be wondering: should I see an emergency dentist? The short answer is yes.
Why Facial Swelling is a Red Flag
Facial swelling can indicate a range of dental problems, but one of the most common causes is a dental abscess, a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. Abscesses can develop due to untreated tooth decay, gum disease, or trauma to the tooth. As the infection worsens, it can spread to surrounding tissues, causing noticeable swelling in the cheek, jaw, or even under the eyes.
In some cases, the infection can become life-threatening if it spreads to critical areas like the throat, neck, or bloodstream. That’s why any sudden or severe swelling should be treated as a dental emergency.
Signs You Should See an Emergency Dentist
If you experience any of the following symptoms along with facial swelling, it’s time to call an emergency dentist:
- Throbbing or severe toothache.
- Fever or chills.
- Swelling that spreads to the neck or eyes.
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing.
- Pus or foul-tasting discharge in your mouth.
- Redness or warmth in the swollen area.
These are signs that the infection may be spreading and needs immediate treatment.
What Will the Emergency Dentist Do?
An emergency dentist will first assess the cause of the swelling through a physical examination and possibly an X-ray. If an infection is present, they may drain the abscess, prescribe antibiotics to stop the infection from spreading, and discuss treatment options for the underlying issue. This may include a root canal, extraction, or deep cleaning depending on the severity of the condition.
In some cases, especially if the swelling affects your breathing or if the infection is extensive, the dentist may refer you to a hospital for more intensive care.
What You Can Do Until You Get to the Dentist
While you’re waiting for your emergency dental appointment, you can manage discomfort and reduce swelling with the following tips:
- Apply a cold compress to the swollen area for 15 to 20 minutes at a time.
- Rinse with warm saltwater to help cleanse the area.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, if approved by your doctor.
- Avoid lying flat, as it may worsen swelling.
Avoid trying to “pop” or drain the swelling yourself—this can worsen the infection or introduce new bacteria.
Don’t Wait — Get Help
Facial swelling related to dental problems should always be taken seriously. Left untreated, what starts as a toothache can quickly escalate into a serious health concern. Seeing an emergency dentist right away can relieve your pain, stop the spread of infection, and protect your overall health.
About the Practice
Has your face swollen, or are you experiencing another type of dental emergency? Let Iglesias Dental Group be the practice to bring you back to health. Our experienced and skilled dental team keeps weekend and extended office hours just for your convenience. Anxious about seeing the dentist? We have sedation options available to help you have a comfortable, calm experience. Whatever the issue, schedule an appointment with us online or call (954) 341-0500.