You’re going along with your day just fine until you begin to experience major discomfort in your face. While sometimes random pains can go away on their own, if it lingers in your mouth, cheeks, or forehead, it could be a sign of an oral health issue. If that’s the case, it’s best to go see your emergency dentist as soon as possible before the symptoms become worse. Here are three common dental emergencies that cause facial pain and would require getting help from a dental professional.
#1. A Dry Socket
If you recently had a tooth removed, there is a certain healing process that needs to take place. A blood clot forms over the socket, which aids in healing the mouth. However, if the clot doesn’t end up forming—or becomes dislodged—you will have what is called a dry socket. Unfortunately, this can leave your bone tissue and nerves exposed to bacteria and other harmful elements. Dry sockets are not only painful but can significantly slow down your recovery time.
If you do indeed have a dry socket, it will be marked by consistent pain at the treatment site. Additionally, if you look at the treated area in the mirror, you may see the bone. If you think this is the root cause of your discomfort, you should see your dentist right away so your healing can get back on track.
#2. A Dental Abscess
An abscess is when pockets of pus form under the skin. A dental abscess is when a pocket is formed near your tooth, usually due to an infection that has gone untreated. It can cause facial pain when it has been left alone too long and begins to spread beyond just your mouth. If a dental abscess is not tended to, it can lead to a life-threatening infection called sepsis.
The most common symptoms of this dental emergency are consistent throbbing pain, swollen gum tissue, a bitter taste, sensitivity in the tooth, and fever. Be sure to visit your dentist right away if you believe you have a dental abscess, especially if you have a compromised immune system; this will make it more likely for the infection to spread more quickly.
#3. TMJ Disorder
A temporomandibular joint disorder – or commonly known as the shortened version of TMJ disorder– is a problem with the joint that attaches your lower jaw to your skull. While the exact cause of this issue isn’t always clear, it’s often attributed to bruxism (teeth grinding), jaw injury, or arthritis.
People who suffer from TMJ disorder often deal with jaw and aching facial pain. It is also marked by difficulty chewing and limited movement of your jaw. If left untreated, your symptoms will likely grow worse over time so don’t wait too long to call your dentist for an appointment to see what treatment is available so you can return to a comfortable, happy smile!
About the Practice
Cornerstone Dental keeps the smiles of Fargo whole and healthy through the expertise of Dr. Stacy Goodwill and Dr. Jessica Majidian. With a priority of providing high-quality, compassionate dentistry, they provide a full range of services, including emergency care. They are available for same-day appointments for any unexpected oral health issue, so they get help you return to a thriving and comfortable smile as soon as possible! To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or call (701) 237-1491.