When your cheek starts to swell, it can be hard to focus on anything else until the pain subsides. You might wonder what the issue could be. Your dentist will be able to diagnose you at an emergency dental appointment, so it’s important to schedule one as quickly as possible. Until then, here’s a quick rundown of two problems that could be to blame for your swollen cheek.
Tooth Abscess
Abscesses are painful, pus-filled lumps. They can sprout in the mouth due to bacterial infection in the gums or root chamber. Abscesses can pop up very quickly, so you may start to feel intense discomfort very suddenly. Of course, swelling in the surrounding area is also a symptom, which is why you might be able to notice the abscess by the inflation of your cheek. An abscess won’t go away on its own, so you should make an appointment with your dentist as quickly as possible to remove it.
Salivary Gland Infection
Salivary glands are in the cheek and, as you might have guessed, they’re normally responsible for producing saliva. Bacteria can enter these glands, causing them to become infected. This usually happens when the mouth isn’t producing saliva due to some pre-existing issue, such as:
- Blockage of a gland duct
- Influenza or other viral infections
- Dehydration
- Malnutrition
- Excess mucus
In any case, salivary gland infections can become serious, so it’s important to see your emergency dentist as soon as possible.
What Will Treatment Look Like?
When you get to your appointment, your dentist will probably bring you in for an emergency exam. They’ll look at your teeth, gums, and cheek to diagnose your issue.
If you’re dealing with an abscess, treatment will involve removing both the sore and the underlying infection. In severe cases, a root canal or extraction might be necessary. If you have a salivary gland infection, the exact nature of the disease will determine the necessary treatment. Your dentist might have to remove the salivary gland or could put you on a course of antibiotics.
No matter what the exact issue is, painful swelling is never fun. You should be sure to contact your emergency dentist; they’ll be able to address any problem you may have.
About Our Practice
At MJM Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we don’t want you to have to suffer through a dental emergency alone. We’ll try to get you into the office the same day, and our dental team will give you the advice you need to be comfortable until then. We also offer same-day crowns if you need a restoration, and sedation dentistry if you’re not the biggest fan of the dentist’s office. If you have any questions about dental emergencies, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (703) 934-5540.
