If you’re struggling with facial pain, then you may be doing your best to get to the bottom of it. Finding out the cause can give you an idea of who you should visit to get it treated. In some cases, your dentist might be the person to give you the relief you deserve. However, what dental emergencies lead to this discomfort? Here are four that you should keep in mind.
1.) Teeth Grinding or Clenching
When you wake up in the morning and feel your jaw hurting, it may be because of teeth grinding or clenching. This habit is also called bruxism, but it may happen subconsciously during the night. The muscles in your face can become sore and strained, but you may also notice increased enamel wear. Your dentist can give you a nightguard to help protect your smile from damage.
2.) Dental Abscess
An infected tooth is already an emergency, but if it causes a dental abscess, then it’s an even bigger one! This is a pimple-like bump that shows up on the gums, but it often causes severe discomfort. You might have swelling and a fever along with it, but you should visit your dentist right away. They will be able to treat it and get you back the pain-free grin you deserve.
3.) Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Your wisdom teeth are the last set to come in. They start to erupt in your late teens to early twenties, but they may not come out all the way. For some, they may not push past the gumline and put pressure on the structures nearby. If this is the case, then you may feel them hurting persistently with some swelling. Thankfully, your provider can help you avoid any trouble they may cause.
4.) Dry Socket
Dry socket is more of a situational reason, as it happens if you have had a tooth removed recently. After this procedure, a blood clot forms to fill the extraction site. This helps keep the area clean while protecting the sensitive nerve endings. If this healing component is dislodged or dissolved before the initial recovery is done, then you may experience intense discomfort that can radiate out.
In the end, if you’re feeling facial pain, then you should try to get it checked out. By going to your dentist, they can let you know whether it’s an issue they can fix. That way, you can get back a comfortable smile or know who you should call.
About the Author
Dr. Barry Uldrikson earned his dental degree from the Loma Linda University School of Dentistry. He has over 45 years of experience that he uses to give the Kingman community the high-quality care they deserve. Dr. Uldrikson is here for your dental emergencies by offering same-day urgent appointments to give you the effective solution you need as soon as possible. If you need help getting to the bottom of your facial pain, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling (928) 692-9394.