Have you suddenly developed a swollen jaw, eyes, or cheeks? It’s natural to feel upset if you’re dealing with a puffy face and want to get help as fast as possible, especially if it also presents with pain.
However, if you’ve never experienced anything like this before, you might question who to call for help. Should you hop in the car and head to the closest ER or contact your oral health care provider first? Continue reading to learn about 3 reasons this sometimes happens and why you might want to contact your emergency dentist if you experience facial distension.
Cause #1: Tooth Abscess
Did you know that most people have 20+ billion bacteria in their mouths at any given moment? Although some are beneficial, many contribute to oral issues like tooth decay and gum disease. If these germs penetrate your enamel or gum tissues, and infection can form in or around the root of your tooth. This disease is often accompanied by a painful pocket of pus, or abscess, in your jaw or connective tissues that swell and throb.
The longer this issue goes unaddressed, the more likely it is to kill the tender nerves in the pulp or spread to neighboring teeth, your gums, or your jawbone. You should contact your dentist immediately for a same-day appointment to assess and treat the damage, usually with a root canal or extraction.
Cause #2: Salivary Gland Infection
Another common cause behind suddenly swollen cheeks is a salivary gland infection. While you could probably accurately predict that some of these glands are located in your mouth, you might be surprised to learn they also exist in front of and below each ear and below your jaw on either side of your face. If they are blocked or become inflamed, it can cause an infection that results in a puffy visage.
Several potential causes include dehydration, excess mucus from a cold or the flu, a stuck salivary stone, or even malnutrition. Whatever the cause, your dentist can prescribe antibiotics or refer you to an ear, nose, and throat doctor if needed.
Cause #3: Other Health Conditions
Unfortunately, it can sometimes be hard to pinpoint the exact cause of your distension because there are so many other general health concerns that can cause similar symptoms. For instance, you might be experiencing anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can cause hives, breathing difficulties, and facial swelling. It could also be caused by a hormone disorder like hypothyroidism.
Your dentist will examine your mouth to determine the underlying source of the problem so they can treat you as quickly as possible. If they cannot assist, they will refer you to a nearby emergency room or other appropriate provider to treat it.
