How an Emergency Dentist Treats a Swollen Jaw

A swollen jaw is most often caused by a tooth infection or abscess. An emergency dentist will first examine the area, then drain any infection and remove damaged tissue. Treatment may include a root canal, tooth extraction, antibiotics, or a combination. Left untreated, jaw infections can spread to surrounding tissue — making prompt care essential.

Pain or discomfort in your mouth might call for an emergency dentist. Emergency dentists often treat cracked or broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, and severe mouth pain. Some swollen jaws are considered dental emergencies as well.

When is a swollen jaw an emergency?

If the swelling in your jaw appears suddenly or is accompanied by severe pain or fever, then you should seek immediate attention. These might be signs of an underlying infection or a dental abscess. Even if you know the cause of your swelling or pain, it may still be an emergency. A swollen jaw resulting from trauma to the face might indicate a broken jaw bone or damaged teeth and gums.

How does an emergency dentist treat a swollen jaw?

Immediate care

First, your dentist will enquire about the nature of the pain and swelling. If an infection or abscess is causing your troubles, then your dentist will work to remove the problem tissue and quickly drain any puss. You may also need an emergency root canal for your dentist to fully remove any infected tissue. He or she might also prescribe a round of antibiotics to fight against further infection. If an injured jaw or tooth is causing inflammation, your dentist will work to fix or extract the broken bone. A cracked or broken tooth might require an emergency filling or bonding procedure. If the jaw bone itself is fractured, an emergency dentist may have to wire your jaw to ensure that it heals and later functions correctly.

Long-term care

The emergency dentist will recommend at-home treatments to manage pain and inflammation over the next few days. Soft foods can help prevent more discomfort in the area and may be recommended for the next few days as your jaw continues to heal.

Conclusion

Whether you know the cause of the swelling or not, you should seek immediate dental care. Proper inspection and treatment by a trained professional is the optimal way to handle a swollen jaw. Contact our office to get the help you need.