Is a Swollen Jaw a Dental Emergency?

A swollen jaw can be quite alarming and often painful. This can often lead to infection and discomfort.

Are you also facing such situations?  

Then, you need to know when a swollen jaw becomes a dental emergency. 

In an emergency situation, knowing what to do can make all the difference.

In this blog, you will get more information on a swollen jaw.

What are the Causes of a Swollen Jaw?

Swelling in the jaw can happen for any of these reasons. Pay attention to yourself and contact an emergency dentist if you notice these signs.

1. Dental Infections
   

• If you have cavities and if you leave them untreated, it can lead to swelling.
• Gum infections also cause swelling in your jaw, which can be painful.
  

2. Trauma or Injury
   

• If you recently had a hit or injury to your face, it can often cause a swollen jaw.
• A fractured or dislocated jaw can develop into a big issue.
  

3. Wisdom Teeth Problems
   

• If your wisdom teeth are infected, the infection can spread to neighboring tissues and cause swelling in the area.
  

4. Other Medical Conditions
   

• A swollen jaw can also result from a salivary gland infection
• Jaw cysts are also another reason for this swelling. 

When a Swollen Jaw Becomes a Dental Emergency?

Not all swollen jaws are medical emergencies. However, there is a chance that it could be an emergency.

Warning Signs

• Severe pain in the jaw
• Extensive swelling that is spreading rapidly to the nearby areas
• Discharge of pus from the swollen area
• Difficulty in swallowing or opening your mouth fully.

What Can Happen if You Ignore the Signs?

Things can turn pretty bad when you ignore the obvious signs of an emergency.

• Prolonged discomfort that can affect daily activities like chewing or eating
• Permanent damage to teeth, jaw, and the overall mouth
• The infection can enter your bloodstream and spread to the whole body.

What to Do If You Have a Swollen Jaw?

Taking the right steps at the right time means you lessen the chances of spreading the infection.

Immediate Steps at Home:

• Rinse your mouth with salt water. This water can soothe the irritation and reduce the chances of any bacteria growth.
• Apply a cold compress just outside your cheek over the painful area. This can help reduce swelling and numb the pain.
• Avoid hard foods for the time being. Hard foods will only cause more irritation to your swollen jaw.

When to Contact A Dentist?

You need to contact your dentist if:

• The pain only gets worse with time
• Recently, you had an accident to your jaw
• If you notice signs of infection and swelling spreading to the mouth.

A swollen jaw can be a minor inconvenience and also a major oral health issue. Understanding the symptoms and taking the necessary steps at the right time makes all the difference.

If you are still in doubt about a swollen jaw and would like to get more information, contact our dental office and book an appointment for you.