Facial swelling can be uncomfortable, embarrassing, and in many cases, even a bit scary. You should certainly seek professional help — but would it be better to visit the hospital or your dentist? Most of the time, visiting a dentist for facial swelling is the best course of action. Let’s talk about why that is the case and what your dentist may do to help you find relief.
Why Visit a Dentist for Facial Swelling?
Often, facial swelling is related to an oral health problem. For example, if you are experiencing a toothache in addition to the swelling, it is possible that an infection that started in your tooth has spread to the surrounding tissues. Antibiotics, possibly along with root canal therapy or other treatments, can clear up the infection and put a stop to the swelling in the process. Injuries to the mouth can also cause swelling. Depending on the nature and type of the injury, your dentist may be able to tend to it and facilitate a speedy, complication-free recovery.
Keep in mind that you should not ignore facial swelling, especially if it is related to a dental infection. In some cases, an infection that starts in the tooth can spread throughout the rest of the body, leading to a high fever and other serious symptoms. In rare cases, people have even died from untreated dental infections. Fortunately, most emergency dentists are able to see patients with serious symptoms on a same-day basis.
Should You Ever Visit the Hospital for Facial Swelling?
Of course, the are some instances when it would be better to visit the hospital for facial swelling. If the swelling is severe enough to hinder your breathing, you should head to the ER right away. After they protect your airway and provide primary care, you can visit a dentist later for follow-up treatment (if the original swelling was due to a dental problem). There are also some causes of facial swelling that are unrelated to oral health, such as allergic reactions, that merit a visit to a hospital.
How Long Will It Take for the Swelling to Disappear?
Oral health-related swelling should begin to subside shortly after you start treatment, but depending on its severity, it may be several days before it is completely gone. Also, keep in mind that some types of dental procedures can cause swelling in the cheeks and gums. This type of swelling, such as what may occur after an extraction or root canal therapy, is normal and will disappear with time. Cold compresses and other measures can help to keep it to a minimum.
Facial swelling is nothing to take lightly! Seeking fast treatment can help you find relief, protect your smile, and perhaps even save your life.
Meet the Practice
Drs. Erin Page is the dental experts at Capital Smiles in Schenectady. She offer a range of treatments for facial swelling and make efforts to see emergency patients as soon as possible. To learn more about them and how they may be able to serve you, contact our office at 518-374-0317.