It may feel counterintuitive to learn that you should call your emergency dentist for a problem like facial swelling. It’s easy to assume that anything medical should be handled by a doctor, instead. The truth is, though, that in many cases the symptoms you’re noticing are due to a dental problem. When that’s the case, only your dentist has the right instruments and experience to accurately diagnose and remedy the issue. If you’re not sure what kind of help you might require, keep reading to learn more about 3 possible causes behind your inflammation, and how your dentist can help.
#1: Tooth Abscess
When harmful bacteria enter your gums or penetrate the soft pulp inside of your tooth, you can develop an infection which is often accompanied by a pocket of puss. If this is the culprit, your tooth and gums become irritated which can cause inflated cheeks in addition to severe or sudden pain. It’s important to call your dentist right away with symptoms like these because they won’t clear up on their own. The illness can even progress further and enter your bloodstream, which can cause sepsis.
When you arrive at your dentist’s office, they’ll examine your mouth and take X-rays to determine whether you have an abscess. If so, they may recommend treatments such as a root canal to drain the infection, or in extreme cases, a tooth extraction.
#2: Salivary Gland Infection
There are glands in your cheeks that produce saliva to help you chew and digest your food which can become achingly inflamed if they get infected. This can result from:
- A blocked gland duct.
- Viruses or other conditions like Influenza A, sarcoidosis, HIV, herpes, mumps, and radiation cancer treatment.
- Dehydration.
- A salivary stone.
- Malnutrition.
Treatment can include antibiotic therapy or removal of the glands if necessary. If your dentist can’t efficiently address the primary cause, then they’ll refer you to the proper medical professional such as an ear, nose, and throat doctor.
#3: Allergic Reactions
An allergic reaction can also lead to puffy cheeks and is usually accompanied by other symptoms like red, itchy, watery, and burning eyes. Whether you’re reacting to dust, mold, pet dander, or pollen, your body responds to exposure to allergens by producing histamine, which causes blood vessels in that area to expand. Often, over-the-counter allergy medications are sufficient to address the problem but if not, you should call a professional.
Once your dentist identifies the core issue, they’ll do their best to provide fast relief so that you won’t have to suffer the symptoms for too long!
About the Author
Dr. Chase Smith takes pride in building connections with patients to provide excellent care to meet all their dental needs, including emergency services. He earned his undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering from The Ohio State University, where he then also earned his dental degree. He offers same-day appointments and sedation options in case anything unexpected happens and you need fast relief. If you’re in pain and need help, you’re welcome to contact the office on the website or by calling (740) 246-5286.