Since the teeth and jaws are part of the face, almost every dental emergency can involve some facial pain. However, facial pain can arise from a wide variety of different causes, and many of them do not count as dental emergencies. Here’s a brief guide to a few types of facial pain, what causes them, and whether they indicate that you need the help of a trained dentist.
What Kind of Facial Pain Indicates a Dental Emergency?
You may need emergency dental care if your facial pain is consistent with any of these:
- Severe toothache: A throbbing toothache is usually a sign of an advanced dental infection that will not go away on its own. Dentists often treat these issues with restorative procedures such as root canals.
- Jaw pain: Chronic jaw pain that makes normal activities of daily living difficult may be the result of a TMJ issue that your dentist can address with a treatment such as an occlusal splint.
- Aching teeth: If you find that your teeth ache when you wake up, it may be due to you involuntarily grinding your teeth in your sleep. Your dentist can provide you with a customized nightguard to protect your smile.
What Kind of Facial Pain Doesn’t Usually Indicate a Dental Emergency?
Some types of facial pain may be addressed best by a medical provider other than a dentist. For example:
- Aching around the upper molars: If you experience a dull ache behind your eyes or in the upper part of the back of your mouth, it may be due to sinus inflammation. This issue can usually be treated by an ENT specialist.
- Headache: While chronic headaches can result from TMJ issues or dental misalignments, they can also arise from many other sources such as stress, hormone imbalances, or infections such as a cold or the flu.
- A broken jaw: A broken jaw can be quite painful, and it is best to have this issue treated at an emergency room.
Facial pain can be frustrating, but there are things you can do to address it. Knowing where to get the care you need when you need it can help you avoid much pain and further oral health complications.
About the Practice
Khoi Dental Group offers the finest oral health services from two locations in Jacksonville. Led by Drs. Khoi Le and Edward Murray, the staff ensures that each patient receives genuine compassion and outstanding customer service. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, dial (904) 262-8449. For non-emergency inquiries, contact the office online.