Facial pain can have many causes, ranging from sinus infections to muscle strain. However, it’s important not to overlook your oral health. Certain dental emergencies can cause pain that radiates beyond the teeth and gums into your jaw, cheeks, or even your ears. Knowing when facial pain may be related to a dental problem can help you seek treatment before the issue becomes more serious.
Here are some of the most common dental emergencies that can cause facial pain.
A Severe Tooth Infection
One of the leading causes of facial pain is a tooth infection, also known as a dental abscess. This occurs when bacteria enter the inner pulp of a tooth through a deep cavity, crack, or injury.
An abscess can cause:
- Intense, throbbing tooth pain.
- Swelling in the gums or face.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold.
- Pain when biting down.
- A bad taste in your mouth if the abscess drains.
Because the infection can spread to surrounding tissues, an abscess is considered a dental emergency and should be treated as soon as possible.
A Cracked or Broken Tooth
A cracked or fractured tooth can expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth, causing pain that may extend into your jaw or face.
The discomfort may be constant or occur only when chewing or biting. In some cases, the crack may be difficult to see, making it important to have your dentist evaluate any unexplained facial pain following an injury or after biting something hard.
Prompt treatment can help prevent the crack from worsening and improve the chances of saving the tooth.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth that don’t have enough room to erupt properly can become impacted beneath the gums or partially emerge through the gum tissue. This can lead to inflammation, infection, and pressure on neighboring teeth.
Symptoms often include jaw pain, facial swelling, difficulty opening the mouth, and tenderness near the back of the jaw. If these symptoms develop, your dentist can determine whether wisdom tooth removal is necessary.
Trauma to the Jaw or Teeth
A blow to the face during a fall, sports injury, or accident can damage your teeth, jawbone, or surrounding tissues. Even if no teeth appear broken, trauma may result in significant facial pain, swelling, or changes in your bite.
If you experience facial pain after an injury, seek prompt evaluation. In some cases, emergency medical care may be needed before dental treatment begins.
Facial pain isn’t always caused by a dental emergency, but when it’s accompanied by tooth pain, swelling, fever, difficulty chewing, or an unpleasant taste in your mouth, it’s important to contact your dentist promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can relieve your discomfort, prevent complications, and protect your oral health.
About the Author
Colorado Springs dentist Dr. John Jared Waite is a 2004 graduate of the Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas. Through continuing education, he has obtained expertise in areas including cosmetic dentistry, sleep apnea treatment, and dental implants. Dr. Waite is also a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. Have you suffered a dental emergency? Dr. Waite and his team would be happy to serve you during your time of need. Book online or call (719) 282-3400.