Have you ever had a bout of unexplained facial pain that seems to get worse throughout the day? While you might assume the problem stems from your jaw or sinuses, dental emergencies can often be the real culprits. Because your teeth, gums, and jaw are connected by sensitive nerves, a serious dental issue can send pain across your face, into your ear, or even up to your temple. Keep reading to learn what dental emergencies can trigger facial pain, so you get help quickly and protect your smile.
Infections and Abscesses
One of the most common dental causes of facial pain is a dental abscess. This is often the end result when bacteria enter a tooth or build up around your gums and cause an infection.
Abscesses usually lead to swelling, throbbing pain, and sensitivity to temperature. However, in severe cases, the infection can spread through your face and neck, causing excruciating pain.
An abscess is considered a dental emergency and needs immediate treatment to stop the infection and relieve pain. So, if you notice a bump on your gums or a swollen jaw, call your dentist right away.
Impacted Wisdom Tooth
Wisdom teeth that don’t have enough room to grow (which is often the case) can push into nearby teeth or remain trapped under your gums. This is known as an “impacted” tooth and can cause pressure, swelling, jaw stiffness, and facial pain.
Impacted wisdom teeth may also lead to infections or gum inflammation, making the pain even worse. Removing them via extraction is often the best solution to relieve pain and prevent future issues.
Cracked or Broken Teeth
A small crack in your tooth may not always seem serious, but it can quickly become painful if ignored. When the crack reaches the inner layers of your tooth, the nerve can become irritated or exposed. Over time, this can cause sharp pain that radiates through your cheek or jaw.
By the same token, a break from trauma, grinding, or biting something hard can create a similar situation that requires more immediate care. Treating a damaged tooth early prevents more serious issues from popping up and reduces your overall risk of infection.
Facial pain should never be ignored, especially if it comes on quickly, keeps getting worse, or makes it hard to eat or speak. Dental emergencies can progress fast, so timing is important. If you’re ever unsure whether you’re dealing with a dental emergency, call your dentist. They can examine your mouth and help you find relief in no time.
About the Practice
At Southlake Family Dentistry, Dr. Priya Chougule and Dr. Ashley Fasone provide gentle, comprehensive care for patients of all ages. Their approach to emergency care focuses on relieving pain and helping every patient feel comfortable and informed. They’re proud to support Southlake families with trusted, compassionate dental care using the latest dental technology and techniques. Call (803) 548-3342 to schedule a consultation or visit our website to learn more about our services.