A swollen face or jaw is never to be ignored. While it might initially appear to be some minor reaction, it often means there’s an infection deep in the gum or tooth. A dental abscess is one of the most common reasons behind a swollen face or jaw. It develops fairly quickly, accompanied by sharp pain, visible swelling, and even fever. These are not problems that go away on their own. If left untreated, the infection will spread beyond the mouth and lead to serious health issues.

At Maegan Elam, DDS & Associates, Dr. Elam and her team understand that dental emergencies aren’t planned for. Seeking timely care when symptoms occur can protect your well-being and prevent more complex treatment in the future.

What Causes a Dental Abscess?

A dental abscess forms when bacteria invade the pulp – the inside, soft tissue of your tooth, via deep cavities, cracks, or gum infection. Your body strikes back by bringing in white blood cells to fight the infection, producing pus and pressure inside the tooth or gum. 

Triggers include:

• Untreated cavity
• Cracked or broken teeth
• Advanced gum disease
• Previous dental trauma or failed dental work

These infections can progress quickly. If you have a sharp pain that increases when you recline, notice swelling near your jaw or cheek, or have a bad taste in your mouth, it’s time to get immediate care for a dental abscess or swollen face before it spreads.

Signs You Need Emergency Dental Care

Dental abscesses aren’t just sore – they’re a signal of infection. Contact an emergency dentist in Bedford immediately if you have:

• Sudden swelling in your face or neck
• Severe, continuous toothache
• Fever, tiredness, or swollen lymph nodes
• Hot or cold sensitivity
• Difficulty opening your mouth or swallowing

How Dr. Elam Can Help

Dr. Elam’s care for dental abscess is focused both on relief and on protection. It starts with the determination of the site of infection through dental imaging. Once determined, treatment may involve draining the abscess to remove pus and pressure, and antibiotics for infection control. Root canal therapy can usually save the tooth, restoring its function, as well as protecting against flare-ups in the future.

For more severe infections where the tooth cannot be preserved, extraction might be required. Rest assured, your comfort is always our concern – all steps of care are taken with precision and compassion.

Dental infections are not slow-growing. The faster you move, the less likely the bacteria are to spread to other tissues or even into your blood. 

Even if the pain resolves temporarily, don’t assume that the infection has gone. Abscesses can rupture internally, concealing symptoms yet continuing to spread under the surface. Early treatment of dental abscesses stops the infection where it’s occurring and protects your health in the long run.

If you have a puffy face or are worried about an infection of the tooth, do not delay another day. Dr. Elam is here to help you.