Facial pain can be alarming, especially when it appears suddenly or becomes severe. In many cases, the source of facial pain is a dental emergency that requires prompt treatment. Because the teeth, jaw, and facial nerves are closely connected, dental problems can cause pain that radiates through the cheeks, jaw, ears, or even the eyes. Here are 4 dental emergencies that commonly cause facial pain and shouldn’t be ignored.
1. Tooth Abscess
A tooth abscess is a serious infection that forms at the root of a tooth or in the surrounding gum tissue. It often causes intense, throbbing pain that can spread to the jaw, cheek, ear, or neck. Facial swelling, fever, a bad taste in the mouth, and sensitivity to pressure are common symptoms. A dental abscess requires immediate care, as the infection can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.
2. Impacted or Infected Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth can cause significant facial pain when they don’t have enough room to erupt properly. Impacted wisdom teeth may press against neighboring teeth or become trapped under the gums, leading to infection and inflammation. Pain often affects one side of the face and may be accompanied by swelling, jaw stiffness, and difficulty opening the mouth. Infected wisdom teeth can quickly worsen and should be evaluated as soon as possible.
3. Advanced Gum Disease
Severe gum disease, or periodontitis, can cause facial discomfort due to inflammation and infection of the gums and supporting bone. As the disease progresses, it may lead to gum abscesses, loose teeth, and swelling that extends into the cheeks or jaw. Facial pain from gum disease is often dull and persistent but can become sharp if an abscess forms.
4. Cracked or Fractured Tooth
A cracked or fractured tooth can trigger facial pain, especially when chewing or biting down. Cracks allow bacteria to enter the inner layers of the tooth, leading to irritation or infection of the nerve. Pain may radiate along the jaw or into the face and is often triggered by temperature changes or pressure. Even small cracks can worsen quickly without treatment.
When to Seek Emergency Dental Care
Facial pain combined with swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing, or trouble breathing is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. Early treatment can relieve pain, prevent complications, and protect your overall health.
Facial pain is often a sign of a serious dental problem. Tooth abscesses, impacted wisdom teeth, advanced gum disease, and cracked teeth all require prompt care. If facial pain develops suddenly or worsens, contacting a dentist right away is the safest way to get relief and prevent further damage.
About the Author
Dr. Bo Tran graduated summa cum laude from the University of California at Irvine before earning his dental degree from Midwestern University Glendale Campus, where he received the Golden Hand Award. Dr. Tran worked as a dental lab technician before becoming a dentist and earned certification in clear aligners, took advanced courses on cosmetic dentistry and root canal therapy, and earned membership in the Arizona Dental Association. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, don’t wait – schedule an appointment online or call our Phoenix office at (602) 944-7199.