How to deal with toothache and a swollen face

Facing pain in your gums and around your teeth isn’t the most enjoyable, especially when it starts to affect the way you look. 

Toothache is a pretty common issue, but is facial swelling a normal symptom, or is it time to see a professional?

Today, we’ll explore the common causes and symptoms of toothache, discussing whether a swollen face should be left to ease or a cause for concern. 

What is toothache?

Toothache is a pain that presents itself in the gums and around the teeth. It usually occurs when an infection is present or wisdom teeth are growing, but patients can also experience it when they have:

• tooth decay
• gum disease
• an abscess
• bleeding from the gums 

For most, a toothache can be a fleeting visit that painkillers can sort out, but others can experience facial swelling, indicating a dental professional is needed. 

Why is my face swollen from toothache?

Just because you have a toothache, it doesn’t mean you’ll get a swollen face, but it is very common. 

Ranging from mild to severe, face swelling is usually caused by infection or an abscess spreading. While it usually presents itself on the cheek, you may also feel and see it along the jaw and neck.   

Short-term toothache can usually result in slight swelling and pain around the area, but if the facial swelling is noticeable and lasts more than two days, it’s important you make an appointment with your dentist to assess the severity of the situation. 

Symptoms of toothache 

Those with toothache experience: 

• pain when chewing
• sensitivity to hot and cold food/drink 
• swelling on the inside and outside of the mouth 

When to see a dentist 

Not many people know how long they should endure toothache. But, you should see a dentist if: 

• pain lasts longer than 2 days
• painkillers don’t help the ache
• you have a temperature 
• chewing is difficult
• swelling is present around the cheeks and along the jaw

Experiencing these symptoms? Make sure to book an appointment with the best dentists in Birmingham, right here at Scott Arms Dental Practice. 

If the swelling is spreading around the eye, your neck starts to swell, or breathing, swallowing or speaking are difficult, you should go to A&E as soon as you can. 

How to reduce swelling on the face due to toothache

Toothache can be painful, especially if it leads to a swollen face. 

If you’re already booked in at the dentist, you can take painkillers to ease discomfort and use an ice pack to reduce swelling in the meantime.

It’s also recommended you eat soft foods, avoiding anything too chewy or crunchy to prevent any further damage. If the pain is due to an infection, you can do salt water rinses a few times a day to keep the area in question clean. 

Treat your toothache with Scott Arms Dental Practice

Here at Scott Arms Dental Practice, we pride ourselves on our team of emergency dentists in Birmingham, offering quality care and attention to those with pressing concerns such as toothache and a swollen face. 

Contact our 24/7 emergency helpline on 0121 357 5000 to get the best treatment quickly.