Solutions to Common Dental Problems
Facial Swelling
Any facial swelling (such as gums, jaw and cheeks) should be seen to by a dentist or a medical practitioner for medical advice. It may be an indication of a trauma or infection.
Swelling is generally an inflammatory response characteristic of fluid build-up.
The longer you leave a possible infection the worse it may become. There may be many reasons for the appearance of facial swelling
Dental infections can cause facial swelling. It is therefore important to maintain good dental care and overall oral health.
Reasons for facial swelling can range from allergic reactions or side effects to medications, and sinus issues. They could also be dental specific such as an abscess, impacted wisdom tooth, localised swelling due to lodgement of foreign object, root canal infections or infections arising from oral surgery and cosmetic dentistry, such as cosmetic dental implants.
Localised Swelling
Facial swelling can differ in regards to its size, severity and location. Often localised swelling of the gums and surrounds may be due to food impacting and becoming wedged in the gum tissue.
This results in the local area becoming inflamed and possibly infected. It may also cause an abscess.
Dental Abscess
A tooth that has an abscess generally also causes pain. This means you have an infected tooth which may be due to tooth decay or a broken or cracked tooth.
The abscess can form quickly and cause swelling. An abscess is a bacterial infection that forms at the tooth's root - either at its tip or at the gum line. An abscess requires swift attention because they cannot heal on their own and can also cause tremendous pain. There is also the added risk of the infection spreading to the bloodstream which can lead to sepsis.
If the dentist finds the cause of swelling is an abscess, antibiotics may be prescribed. This however will not solve the problem - but it provides pain relief and settles the tooth for follow-up dental treatment.
It is important to understand it is the source of the infection that needs to be treated. There are a number of options such as extracting the afflicted tooth or root canal treatment. The root canal treatment drains the infection from within the tooth. Once the infection is removed from inside the tooth, it is cleaned and filled. This stops it from being re infected.
FAQs about Facial Swelling
To identify the cause of your facial swelling and provide appropriate treatment.
No. It may progressively get worse and requiring more extensive treatment
No, swelling isn’t always accompanied by pain.
Sometimes you may not have any other signs or symptoms except for the swelling itself.
Even without pain, you should seek medical or dental attention to determine the cause and the treatment you need.
Facial Swelling and Feeling Unwell
If your swelling is also accompanied by other symptoms such as a fever, lethargy, dehydration or general malaise, you should have it attended to as soon as possible. Other signs that the swelling requires immediate attention include that the swelling continues to increase or increases rapidly and also whether the swelling is located near your eyes or airway.
Any signs of difficulty breathing or swallowing can be life threatening and become a medical emergency.
Facial swelling and swelling around the mouth can occur for many reasons. While the swelling is visible and it can lead to pain and sensitivity, it can also be painless. You should call your doctor as you may require medical treatment because swelling can also be triggered by a variety of medical conditions.
All facial swelling should be investigated thoroughly.
You should see your dentist and doctor to determine the causes of your facial swelling and appropriate treatment for your situation.
Find out more about effective treatments for facial swelling and explore a range of dental services tailored to your needs. Connect with our friendly and caring team at Woodville & Seaton Dental Clinic on (08) 8268 5422 or request an appointment online. Start your journey towards a healthier, happier smile now!
