Facial pain can be alarming, especially when it comes on suddenly or is severe. While some causes may be minor, other times facial pain signals a dental emergency that needs immediate attention. Knowing what types of dental issues can trigger facial pain can help you act quickly and protect your oral health.
Tooth Abscess or Severe Infection
One of the most common causes of facial pain is a tooth abscess. This happens when bacteria reach the inner pulp of the tooth and create an infection. The infection can cause swelling, throbbing pain, and even radiate to the jaw, ear, or cheek. Left untreated, a dental abscess can spread to other parts of the body, making it a true dental emergency. Treatment usually involves draining the infection, prescribing antibiotics, and performing a root canal or extraction.
Cracked or Fractured Tooth
A cracked tooth can cause sharp pain when you bite down, chew, or expose it to hot and cold temperatures. If the crack is severe enough to expose the inner pulp, the pain can extend beyond the tooth and into your jaw or face. Immediate treatment is necessary to prevent infection and save the tooth, which may involve a crown, root canal, or bonding.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth that do not fully erupt or grow in at an angle can put pressure on surrounding teeth, gums, and jawbone. This can cause pain in the back of the mouth that spreads to the jaw and cheeks. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth become infected, leading to swelling and difficulty opening the mouth. Extraction is often the recommended solution to relieve pain and prevent complications.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders
Although not always a dental emergency, severe TMJ flare-ups can cause significant pain in the jaw, face, and even the temples. If the pain is sudden, associated with swelling, or prevents you from opening and closing your mouth, it’s worth getting checked right away. Your dentist can determine if the pain is caused by TMJ dysfunction or another dental issue.
Dental Trauma or Injury
A blow to the face or mouth can cause chipped, loose, or knocked-out teeth as well as injury to the jawbone. Facial pain following an accident should always be taken seriously, especially if accompanied by swelling, bleeding, or difficulty moving the jaw. Seeking immediate dental care increases the chances of saving the tooth and preventing long-term damage.
Facial pain should never be ignored, as it often signals a serious dental problem. Abscesses, cracked teeth, impacted wisdom teeth, TMJ disorders, and dental injuries are all common causes that require prompt evaluation. If you experience sudden or severe facial pain, call your dentist or an emergency dental clinic right away to get relief and protect your oral health.
About the Practice
Are you experiencing a dental emergency? At Gale Ranch Family Dental, we’ll get you in quickly with a same-day appointment to alleviate your pain. Our compassionate, trustworthy team will see to it that you get the very best care available. And if you’re anxious to visit the dentist, we have different forms of sedation available to ensure a calm, comfortable experience for you. Don’t delay – make your appointment now online or call us at (925) 648-8881.