DENTAL EMERGENCIES THAT CAUSE FACIAL PAIN
March 9, 2023
A toothache can be incapacitating, making it hard to function during the day and to sleep at night. While a toothache may necessitate an appointment with your emergency dentist, not all dental emergencies cause facial pain. It’s important to recognize what kinds of dental emergencies can cause your face to hurt and to receive treatment as soon as possible. Read on to learn about the different causes of facial pain and how your dentist can help.
10 Potential Causes of Facial Pain
Facial pain’s location, intensity, and duration can vary due to several factors. While it may resolve on its own, it can become chronic and require treatment. Causes of facial pain include:
- Dry sockets
- Sinus infections
- Nerve damage
- Traumatic facial injury
- Underlying medical conditions
- Headaches or migraines
- Bruxism, also known as teeth grinding and jaw clenching
- Infections, like abscesses
- Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD)
- Oral health problems, like gum disease and cavities
How Your Dentist Can Help
If you’re experiencing facial pain, it’s crucial to visit your dentist. They can diagnose the root cause and recommend appropriate treatment, medications, or behavioral changes to alleviate the discomfort. Serious oral health issues like dental abscesses and advanced gum disease may require periodontal therapy or a root canal.
In addition to periodontal therapy or root canal treatment, a dental crown or filling may be necessary to repair severely damaged or decayed teeth. If you have TMD or bruxism, a dental mouthguard can help create a buffer between your upper and lower teeth, therefore alleviating discomfort and preventing further damage.
4 Home Remedies for Facial Pain
Self-care treatments can be effective for mild facial pain, but their success will depend on the underlying cause. You can attempt the following remedies at home until your dentist is able to administer treatment:
- A cold compress – To alleviate facial pain, wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply it to the affected region for 10-20 minutes several times a day.
- Take OTC medication – To ease pain, take medications like ibuprofen, naproxen, or acetaminophen as directed on the bottle.
- Keep your head elevated – Encouraging mucus and fluid drainage can alleviate the discomfort caused by sinusitis.
- Gargle with salt water – To reduce dental pain and inflammation, gargle several times a day with a mixture of warm water and half a teaspoon of salt.
About the Practice
Dr. Mary C. Crosby and her skilled team are responsible for the stunning smiles of Miami and its neighboring communities. With years of experience in the field, Dr. Crosby and her team are committed to providing exceptional oral health care to their patients. They prioritize patient comfort and strive to create a welcoming and stress-free environment. They provide a range of treatment options, including emergency dental services to tackle unexpected oral health issues. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Crosby or to learn more about her emergency dental services, visit her website or call her office at (786) 589-8349 today.