Sometimes the world comes to a screeching halt when you experience facial pain; it can be quite irritating and debilitating at times! But how do you know when these scenarios warrant a trip to your emergency dentist? Here are some dental problems that are known for causing facial pain and why it’s usually in your best interest to contact your dentist for treatment and relief.
Common Causes for Facial Pain
Facial pain is actually a unifying term that describes anyone who experiences pain or discomfort in their face, cheeks, mouth, or forehead. It refers to the actual symptom, rather than a specific condition, and it can occur due to many different reasons, including:
- Oral health issues that have progressed such as decay, cavities, or gum disease
- Underlying medical conditions
- Infections such as abscesses
- Nerve damage
- Dry sockets
- Sinus infections
- Temporomandibular joint disorders due to bruxism (teeth grinding)
- Traumatic facial injury
- Headaches and migraines
Facial pain can vary greatly in terms of intensity, location, and duration. Some types are temporary and resolve on their own, while others may lead to chronic and seemingly unbearable pain that necessitates professional care.
How Your Dentist Can Help
Facial pain isn’t something that should be ignored, misjudged, or endured; there are several reasons for it, and many of them have the potential to worsen if left unaddressed! That said, understanding the cause of the pain is the first step towards receiving treatment, which means that speaking with your dentist promptly should be your top priority if you’re experiencing an issue
Emergency dentists are trained to quickly diagnose the source of facial pain and recommend appropriate treatments, behaviors, and medication to manage and reduce your pain. For serious issues like dental abscesses, which are infections that target the soft, inner pulp of the tooth, root canal therapy is often utilized. Decayed or damaged teeth can typically be restored dental crowns, which function as both protective and aesthetic solutions. Regardless of the source of the pain, once it’s been detected, they can begin taking the appropriate steps to alleviate your discomfort and get your smile back on track.
If you’re dealing with facial pain, don’t neglect contacting your dentist and letting them know what’s going on; your smile is too valuable to be left to suffer needlessly!
About the Practice
Advanced Smile Design proudly serves the dental needs of the Willow Grove, PA community under the leadership of Dr. Krunal Patel and Dr. Poorvi Gandhi. They offer a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options, as well as emergency dentistry. If you or a loved one is suffering from facial pain, don’t hesitate to contact the practice for assistance: (215) 659-3334.
