Why Does My Face Hurt? Dental Emergencies That Cause Facial Pain

Facial pain can be alarming, especially when it’s caused by a dental emergency. Your teeth, gums, and jaw are all connected, so what hurts one can affect them all! This can make self-diagnosis of your facial pain difficult, especially when you’re dealing with discomfort. If you need a little help figuring out what might be happening, continue reading. You’ll learn about several dental emergencies that could be causing your pain.

Tooth Abscess

An abscess is a severe infection that forms at the root of a tooth. When bacteria enter it through untreated cavities or cracks, it can cause intense pain that may radiate to your jaw, cheeks, or even ears. Facial swelling is also common, and in severe cases, the infection can spread, making the situation potentially life-threatening. So, if you suspect an abscess, go to the dentist immediately!

Impacted Wisdom Tooth

When wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to grow properly, they can become impacted. This means that the tooth begins to form inside your gums or turns sideways, only partially erupting. This causes pressure and pain in your jaw that often spreads into other areas.

If left untreated, untreated wisdom teeth can damage nearby teeth and lead to more serious issues. Extraction is often the best treatment for an impacted tooth, but only your dentist can say for sure in your situation.

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Pain

TMJ disorders affect the joint connecting your jaw to your skull, leading to pain that can spread to your face, neck, and head. Common symptoms include jaw clicking, difficulty opening or closing your mouth, and face tenderness. In many cases, TMJ issues aren’t dental emergencies, but when they become prolonged or severely painful, they can be.

When a TMJ issue becomes an emergency, it’s usually due to jaw injuries, teeth grinding, or bite misalignments. If your jaw pain has gone on for a while, or you notice other symptoms, going to your dentist is the best option.

Gum Disease

Infections in your gums, especially advanced periodontal disease, can cause pain that affects your entire face. The infection can spread to the surrounding tissues and structures, leading to swelling and discomfort.

If you’re experiencing facial pain, take notice! It could be more serious than you think. Whether it’s an abscess, impacted wisdom teeth, or a TMJ disorder, getting care quickly is vital for getting out of pain and preventing complications. Don’t ignore the signs—schedule a visit to your dentist as soon as possible! They’ll help you find relief and return to a comfortable smile in no time.

About the Author

Dr. Joe Kern is a 22-year veteran of the dental industry and enjoys helping his patients through difficult dental emergencies. He earned his dental doctorate from The Ohio State University, one of the best dental schools in the country. Since then, he has continued to expand his expertise and serve his community with quality dental care. Call (701) 352-2013 to schedule a same-day emergency appointment at Kern Family Dentistry or visit our website to explore other services.