Seeing an emergency dentist for facial swelling in Carrollton may not seem like the immediate course of action. After all, shouldn’t you rush to the emergency room for medical attention? The answer to this question is that it depends. In this article, a local expert will discuss what you should look for to know when it’s time to seek help from a dental professional and when to head to a local ER.
What Can Cause Facial Swelling?
The most obvious reason for facial swelling is severe trauma. You might assume this only occurs when playing sports and suffering a hard-hitting tackle or spiked volleyball to the face, but it can also happen if you take a tumble while running or riding a bike.
Facial swelling can also form as a result of a serious infection, also commonly referred to as an abscess. This occurs when bad oral bacteria reaches the pulp (the innermost layer of the tooth) and creates immense pain because of the infection forming in the blood vessels and nerves. Without proper treatment, the infection can spread throughout the body and manifest in other ways that can be damaging to your vital organs.
You might also notice some swelling if you are suffering from sinus congestion or even an infection within the salivary glands.
When to Visit the ER vs. an Emergency Dentist
Knowing when to visit the ER versus seeing an emergency dentist isn’t always crystal clear. This is why it’s important to remember that unless you’re unable to breathe or swallow because of swelling, you can plan to see an emergency dentist. When you’re incapable of taking in air, getting to the ER should be your priority.
By visiting your dentist, you can undergo a thorough examination with the help of dental X-rays and other enhanced imaging systems. If you have an abscessed tooth, it will be necessary for your dentist to administer treatment right away, especially if you’ve spent several days in agonizing pain. By removing the infected pulp, not only will the discomfort dissipate, but the tooth will be saved from possible extraction. By placing a crown over the area, it helps to protect against further damage while also strengthening the existing tooth structure.
You’ll also notice that the swelling in your face will go down, creating a more pleasing and comfortable appearance.
Facial swelling shouldn’t leave you wondering how to proceed. Instead, reach out to a local emergency dentist who can guide you on how to handle your situation and whether you require immediate care in-house or at your local ER.
About the Author
Dr. Moji Chandy earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from NYU College of Dentistry. Opening Aegis Dental in 2012, she and her team believe in offering emergency dentistry to help individuals suffering from sudden injuries. When treating facial swelling, it’s necessary to identify the root cause. If you are dealing with much pain and are worried about the state of your oral health, visit our website or call (972) 492-6700.