Does your face look puffy? Does it feel like there’s not enough space in your mouth? You may be experiencing facial swelling, which is typically a sign that something is wrong. What’s causing it? What should you do? First, don’t panic! While facial swelling isn’t normal, timely treatment from your Jacksonville emergency dentist can get you back on track in no time. Read on to learn more about some of the most common causes of swelling in the face or mouth and why you can count on your dentist to help.
Common Causes of Facial Swelling
Swelling is your body’s natural reaction to a variety of things, including blunt force and allergies. If you get hit in the face or eat something you’re allergic to, your body will respond with swelling in the mouth, face, or jaw. Swelling is also a common occurrence after dental procedures like tooth extractions, orthodontics, dental implant surgery, and other treatments that require healing.
However, swelling is also a common warning sign of infection. Bacteria can potentially build up and infect your salivary glands, your gum tissue, or the inner layers of your teeth. These infections can spread to surrounding teeth and throughout the body, not to mention they are usually painful.
When to Call Your Emergency Dentist
It goes without saying that not all types of facial swelling need to be treated by your dentist. Swelling caused by trauma, dental procedures, or a minor allergic reaction can typically be handled at home with ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers. On the other hand, you should call your emergency dentist right away about facial swelling if:
- You’re experiencing a toothache or oral pain
- The swelling persists or worsens after several days
- There’s a small bump on your gums
- You haven’t had your wisdom teeth removed
These symptoms could mean that you have a dental abscess, oral infection, or impacted wisdom teeth. It’s essential that you see your emergency dentist right away to prevent the issue from getting worse.
Why Calling a Dentist Is Better Than Going to the ER
Facial swelling can be alarming, so your first instinct may be to go straight to your local ER. If you suspect your jaw is dislocated or broken, you’re bleeding profusely, or you’re having trouble breathing or swallowing, you should go to your local emergency room immediately. However, for all other cases, you are likely to save time, money, and hassle by giving your dentist a call first.
Your dentist has been specifically trained to treat issues in the mouth, including facial swelling. Not only will they be able to properly diagnose you, but they will have the training and experience to begin the treatment you need to address the underlying problem. Not all ERs have a dentist on staff or are equipped to handle dental emergencies such as a dental abscess. Instead, they may give you painkillers or antibiotics and then tell you to visit a dentist. Plus, you may need to wait many hours in a crowded ER waiting room before being seen, while your dentist will likely be able to take you right away.
Facial swelling isn’t always a serious issue, but it should never be ignored. If you’re concerned about your facial swelling, give your emergency dentist a call for the fast care that you need!
About the Practice
At Jacksonville Complete Dentistry, we’re proud to offer fast and compassionate care for all types of dental emergencies. We go above and beyond to offer same-day appointments for patients experiencing emergencies such as facial swelling. Our highly trained and experienced team uses state-of-the-art dental technology for fast, precise diagnosis and treatment. If you experience a dental emergency or facial swelling, don’t wait to reach us online or at (904) 645-6457.