Are you experiencing sudden facial aches or swelling? It’s only natural to be concerned if your jaw or cheeks inflate painfully. You’re probably wondering what’s causing it and who you should contact. Is it an emergency? And if it is, should you reach out to your dentist or your doctor?
Although there are many potential causes behind your recent distension, there’s a good chance that it points to an underlying dental issue. Continue reading to learn about 3 possible reasons for your inflammation and who can help!
Cause #1: Tooth Abscess
If your jaw is engorged or throbbing, there’s a chance you have a tooth abscess. This is a pocket of infection that forms when harmful bacteria penetrate the roots of your tooth or around your gumline. This sack is filled with fluid and won’t resolve itself. It’s important to contact your emergency dentist right away to address it. Otherwise, the infection can enter your bloodstream and travel to other areas of your body. This can eventually lead to sepsis, a dangerous condition that can be fatal if it’s severe enough.
Your provider may need to perform an emergency root canal followed by antibiotic therapy to drain the infection and preserve your tooth’s functionality. However, if it’s overly damaged or decayed and can’t be saved, they might recommend extraction and replacement instead.
Cause #2: Salivary Gland Infection
The glands that secrete saliva into your mouth are located behind your cheeks. If they become infected, it can cause the sides of your face to swell agonizingly. Plus, it reduces the moisture in your mouth, which can put your dental health at risk. Spit is your body’s natural defense against harmful germs that contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. Without enough of it, you’re at a higher risk of having a dental problem in addition to your aching face.
Your glands may be infected due to duct blockage, dehydration, a salivary stone, or other health conditions like mumps or Influenza A. Your dentist can help identify whether this is the issue, and if so, they’ll refer you to a professional who can better assist you, such as an ear, nose, and throat doctor.
Cause #3: Hypothyroidism
Your thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of your neck. It’s part of the endocrine system and produces different hormones that regulate your body’s growth, development, and metabolism. If it doesn’t produce enough hormones, you might develop a puffy face along with other symptoms like:
- Depression.
- Constipation.
- Fatigue.
- Muscle weakness.
- Slow heart rate.
- Weight gain.
If your bulging cheeks are accompanied by these other concerns, then you should contact your doctor for a diagnosis.
When your face is throbbing, getting the right help as quickly as possible can provide some much-needed relief!
About the Author
Dr. Harvey J. Mahler has been helping Chicago Loop residents improve their dental health since 1986. He’s a graduate of the Georgetown University School of Dentistry and has been a member of the American Dental Association for over 30 years. Today, he takes a whole-body approach to oral health and offers a full array of services under one roof to streamline your dental care. If your face is inflamed or aching and you need help right away, you can contact the office for a same-day appointment on the website or by calling (312) 263-5262.