Questionable Cause: Should I See My Dentist for Facial Swelling?

Have you developed soreness or swelling in your jaw, cheeks, or face? If you’re feeling tender and are unsure of the underlying cause, you might wonder who to contact for help. Should you call your dentist for a same-day emergency visit, or head to your primary care physician or the closest ER?

If an oral issue is causing your facial distension, it’s usually wisest to contact your dentist first. But how do you know whether the problem is related to your teeth? Continue reading to learn more about what might be causing your symptoms and how to get help quickly!

Should I See My Dentist First for Facial Swelling?

It’s natural to feel intimidated if your cheeks have suddenly ballooned for unexpected reasons, but thankfully, there’s a good chance your oral healthcare provider can assist. There are a few dental issues that might be causing the issue, and they have the unique training and state-of-the-art technology to more accurately identify and treat problems with your teeth and gums.

For example, they often reserve time for same-day emergencies so they can see you immediately. Many also offer sedation to help you feel calmer and comfortable. Then, they can examine your teeth and gums and take X-rays to determine whether any damage has extended beneath the surface.

They’ll provide a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs, and can begin treating the underlying issue immediately.  Meanwhile, an ER doctor might be able to take X-rays and help identify the issue, but would need to refer you to your dentist if they aren’t equipped to address it.

What Oral Issues Cause Facial Swelling?

There are a few dental problems that can result in puffy cheeks, such as:

• Tooth abscess. If bacteria in your mouth penetrate the sensitive roots of your teeth, the resulting infection can potentially expand to your jaw and face, causing tenderness and inflammation.
• Salivary gland infection. You might be surprised to learn that your cheeks have large salivary glands that can expand if they become blocked or infected.
• Physical trauma. Athletes and others who participate in team sports or other close-contact activities are prone to sustaining injuries that can cause bruising, aches, and swelling.

What if Something Else Has Caused My Facial Swelling?

Of course, there are other potential causes behind your symptoms, such as a severe allergic reaction to a certain food, pollen, or medication. You might also have developed a cold, flu, or sinus infection.

If your dentist examines your mouth and finds that they cannot treat the root problem, they will refer you to an appropriate physician, such as an ear, nose, and throat specialist, to address it!

Meet the Author

Dr. Chris Johnson is passionate about improving his patients’ daily lives by enhancing their oral health. He earned his dental degree at Texas A&M College of Dentistry, and today, he offers a comprehensive menu of services to meet all your needs under one roof, including same-day emergency visits. His caring and compassionate approach is paired with advanced technology to enhance patient comfort while delivering accurate treatment results intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (713) 229-8100.