Have you ever felt a bout of pain in your face that seemed to come out of nowhere? It can certainly be alarming, especially when it’s severe, interfering with your daily life. While many causes of facial pain are related to dental issues, not all of them require urgent care. So, when should you see a dentist right away if you feel pain in your face? Read on to explore the dental emergencies that can cause facial pain and when to see your dentist.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
When wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to grow properly, they can become impacted; trapped beneath your gumline. This often leads to swelling, pain in the back of your jaw, as well as facial aches and pains. Impacted wisdom teeth can also put pressure on the surrounding structures in your mouth, increasing the risk of infection or cracked teeth.
While it can take some time for wisdom teeth to become an issue, many dentists recommend extracting them as a precaution. Once the pain begins, this is generally the best way to relieve it.
Jaw Injuries
Trauma to the jaw, such as a fracture or dislocation from contact sports or other accidents, can cause significant facial pain. Swelling, bruising, and jaw misalignment are all common symptoms of these injuries, leading to discomfort, and difficulty chewing or speaking.
If you believe you have a fracture or other jaw injury that involves the bone or joint, it’s best to go to the ER. Dentists aren’t generally equipped to treat broken bones, but they will be able to help you restore your smile once you’ve healed.
Dental Abscess
An abscess is a severe infection that forms when bacteria invade the pulp of a tooth. The resulting pus-filled pocket can cause intense pain that radiates to your face, jaw, or neck. If you see a bump near your tooth and it’s accompanied by swelling, fever, and sensitivity it’s time to see your dentist—and fast! If left untreated, an abscess can lead to severe illness or worse.
Sinus Infection
On the opposite end of the seriousness spectrum from dental abscesses are sinus infections. Sometimes, this disruptive condition can be tied to dental issues, especially if an upper tooth infection spreads to the sinus cavity. This can create pressure, pain in the cheeks, and even facial swelling. However, sinus infections generally aren’t a dental emergency.
It’s best to speak with your doctor for an evaluation if you believe you may have a sinus issue. They can determine where the issue is coming from and either prescribe antibiotics or refer you to a specialist.
Facial pain should never be ignored, especially if it’s sudden, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms. These signs often indicate dental emergencies that need immediate attention. So, don’t hesitate to call your dentist and schedule an emergency appointment to find relief!
About the Author
Dr. Ira Newman is a talented dental expert with a dental doctorate from the Emory University School of Dentistry. He has over two decades of experience helping patients achieve healthier smiles with proven restorative treatments. Whether you need a simple filling or a complex emergency dental procedure, Dr. Newman has the technology and training to help you find relief. Call (212) 924-6890 to schedule an emergency appointment at Gramercy Dental Studio or visit our website to learn more.
