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People obviously think about dentists in the context of teeth, but that does a little bit of a disservice to their broader expertise. The state of your oral health comes down to much more than the way your teeth look—it has to do with the functioning of the jaw, gums, sinuses, and overall structure of the face.
If you have facial swelling, you might think that a dentist would be limited in what they could do. However, in some circumstances, this may fall well under the umbrella of a dental emergency. Here’s what you should know about when to schedule an immediate appointment with your dentist due to facial swelling.
When Should I See a Dentist for Facial Swelling?
There are several reasons why your face could appear unnaturally puffy, which can sometimes make it a bit problematic to determine whether you need to see a dentist immediately.
If you find that the swelling doesn’t easily fade, and that it’s associated with consistent discomfort, it’s probably good to see a dentist sooner rather than later. Of course, there’s no harm in reaching out to a dentist anyway to get their opinion on your situation, even if you aren’t especially tender.
What Can Cause Facial Swelling?
There are a variety of issues that could cause your facial swelling, but there are two in particular that are both common and relevant to your dentist.
The first is a dental abscess, which is a painful lump that results from a serious infection in the gums. Such abscesses are associated with swelling, along with substantial discomfort and a foul taste in your mouth.
The second is a salivary gland or sinus infection. These happen often due to either bacterial or viral infection, and a dentist would be able to diagnose the issue when you saw them for an emergency appointment.
Do I Need to Go to the ER?
If you have a dental abscess or toothache, there isn’t anything that the ER can do—they lack the tools that you’d find at the dentist’s office. The only time you should see them for facial swelling is if it presents an urgent or life-threatening health concern, like if you’re bleeding profusely or if your airway is obstructed by inflammation.
About the Author
Dr. Francisca A. Sanchez knows that every patient is different and has made it her mission to provide people with smiles that are as healthy as they are unique. She also approaches every problem with fresh eyes and makes it a point to give each patient her individual attention. Dr. Sanchez received her degree from Columbia School of Dental Medicine. She is currently a member of the New York Dental Association and American Dental Association.
If you have any questions about a dental emergency, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (646) 669-7407.