While it’s common for people to think of dentists as only dealing with the teeth, their expertise actually extends far beyond that. They have a strong understanding of the face, jaw, and the rest of the mouth; this makes them one of the best people to talk to about facial pain.
There are actually several different kinds of facial pain that may be caused by a dental emergency. Here are a few examples of oral health problems that could potentially lead to this issue.
Dental Abscess
Abscesses are small, painful lumps that occur as a consequence of infection. Dental abscesses are typically a result of advanced gum disease that has crept underneath the surface of the gums and has become serious. Such abscesses can be deeply uncomfortable, so much so that it’s common to feel like your entire face hurts when afflicted with one.
If you have a dental abscess, a dentist will be able to safely drain it and treat the underlying infection. This will increase your overall comfort and prevent your issues from worsening.
Salivary Gland Infection
There are small glands in the mouth that produce saliva. These can occasionally become clogged or infected, which can lead to swelling and serious discomfort. Sometimes this is due to viral infections, like influenza, that have little to do with the actual mouth. However, a dentist may be able to take a look at the problem, diagnose the issue, and refer you to the correct physician to deal with the underlying issue.
TMJ Disorder
The jaw is connected to the rest of the face by two small joints. These are known as the temporomandibular joints, or TMJ. For any of a number of reasons, these joints can sometimes become seriously misaligned, leading to a painful condition known as TMJ disorder. This can cause discomfort when opening and closing your mouth, as well as nausea due to the TMJ’s proximity to the inner ear.
If you’re dealing with TMJ problems, your dentist should be able to diagnose the issue and recommend a course of treatment. If the problem is especially complex, they may be able to recommend a TMJ specialist who will be able to furnish you with an oral appliance that could address your problem.
About Our Practice
At Beverly Farms Dental, we’ve been helping members of our community smile for well over 30 years! No matter what condition you come to us with, odds are that we’ve seen it before and that we know exactly how to help you. Moreover, you can rest assured that every time you walk into our dental office, you’ll be greeted by a team of smiling faces ready to help you get the care that you’re looking for.
If you have any questions about a dental emergency, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (978) 927-3515.