What To Do if Your Face is Swollen

Swelling is not exactly an uncommon symptom. Because of this, it can be difficult to know when it’s normal or when something is wrong. If it’s your face that’s looking puffy and bloated, you might be even more confused. After all, if the cause happens to be your mouth, does that mean you should visit your normal doctor, or your dentist? What would a trip to the emergency dentist even look like?

If your facial swelling is giving you mixed signals, keep reading, because this is what you should know.

Should I be Concerned About Facial Swelling?

It can be tempting to dismiss your distended cheeks as something that will go away eventually. However, an inflamed face could indicate serious conditions that can’t be solved with seasonal allergy medication, including:

• An abscessed tooth
• Gum disease
• Dental or facial injuries
• Infection in the mouth
• Abnormal chemical or hormonal levels
• Severe allergic reactions

Your facial swelling could be a valid cause of concern. You’ll want to get it evaluated as soon as possible to avoid complications, so it’s important you consult the appropriate professionals.

Should I Visit My Dentist or The Emergency Room for Facial Swelling?

If you’re having a severe allergic reaction, call an ambulance immediately, especially if you’re starting to have trouble swallowing or breathing. Otherwise, visit your emergency dentist for facial swelling. If it’s caused by an oral health problem (as many cases are), emergency room or urgent care staff will be able to alleviate your discomfort, but will ultimately refer you to a dentist to fully treat the issue.

It’s not that your local ER staff don’t want to help you – dentists simply have the equipment and training to handle more specific tooth- and mouth-related issues. Because of waiting room times, they’re also likely be able to see you and get you back to a pain-free smile far sooner!

What Should I Expect?

Even if you’ve been to an emergency room before, going to an emergency dentist might be completely new to you. Fortunately, the process is rather simple.

After contacting your emergency dentist, they might determine you can wait for an appointment. In this case, they’ll tell you how you can temporarily relieve your symptoms. They might also do this if they instead determine you need urgent care, but they’ll see you as soon as possible and might tell you to come in for a same-day appointment.

When you arrive at the office, the dentist will examine your oral status. Depending on the situation, they may or may not be able to solve the problem immediately. Either way, they’ll take care of your pain, consult with you to review your treatment options, and help you make next step arrangements.

While waking up to a swollen face can be alarming, your healthcare professionals are ready and eager to help. Seek immediate attention if your symptoms are severe or call your emergency dentist if you’re unsure. Either way, don’t wait. Peace of mind is worth its weight in gold.

About the Practice

With Drs. Koops and Mollica, you can stress less knowing you’re in good hands. They’re proficient in a wide range of emergency dental treatments and keep up with the latest technology, empowering them to efficiently evaluate and care for patients. Visit the Orange Place Family Dentistry website for more information or call 216-464-2448 for a same-day emergency appointment to address your facial swelling.