Facial pain can be alarming, especially when you’re not sure what’s causing it. While some discomfort may be mild or temporary, certain types of facial pain can signal a dental emergency that needs prompt attention. Because your teeth, gums, jaw, and facial structures are closely connected, a problem in one area can easily lead to pain in another. Understanding the potential causes can help you decide when it’s time to call your dentist for urgent care.
Severe Tooth Infection or Abscess
One of the most common causes of sudden facial pain is a dental abscess. This is a serious infection that forms when bacteria reach the inner pulp of a tooth. Abscesses often cause throbbing, radiating pain that may spread to your jaw, ear, or cheek.
Other signs of an abscess include swelling, sensitivity, a bad taste in your mouth, or fever. Because infections can spread quickly, this type of pain should always be treated as a dental emergency.
Cracked or Broken Tooth
A cracked or fractured tooth can send sharp pain through your jaw or face, especially when you bite or apply pressure. If the tooth’s inner nerves are exposed, the pain can be intense and persistent.
Even a small crack can deepen over time, eventually leading to infection or tooth loss. Getting evaluated promptly ensures the best chance of saving the tooth and relieving your discomfort.
Advanced Gum Disease
Gum disease doesn’t just affect your gums—it can also lead to inflammation and pain in the surrounding facial tissues. When bacteria accumulate below the gumline, they can irritate the ligaments and bone that support your teeth. This may cause tenderness, swelling, and soreness in the cheeks or jaw.
If gum disease progresses into a more advanced stage, urgent treatment is often needed to control the infection and prevent further damage.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth can cause significant pressure and pain that radiates throughout the jaw and face. When there isn’t enough room for these molars to fully emerge, they may push against surrounding teeth or become infected.
Symptoms often include swelling, difficulty opening your mouth, headaches, or soreness along the jawline. Wisdom tooth pain can escalate quickly, making it important to seek evaluation if the discomfort persists.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Flare-Ups
While not always a dental emergency, TMJ problems can cause sudden and severe facial pain. Stress, injury, or teeth grinding may trigger inflammation in the jaw joints. This can lead to headaches, earaches, jaw stiffness, or facial muscle tenderness.
If the pain becomes severe, affects your ability to open your mouth, or is accompanied by dental issues, an emergency visit may be recommended.
When to Contact a Dentist
Facial pain that doesn’t improve, worsens over time, or is accompanied by swelling, fever, tooth sensitivity, or difficulty chewing should always be taken seriously. Untreated dental problems can escalate quickly, so visiting a dentist can help diagnose the cause and provide fast relief.
Prompt treatment can help protect your oral health and ease your discomfort.
About the Practice
Oris Dental Studio provides modern, patient-centered care for individuals and families seeking exceptional dentistry. The Austin community can count on Dr. Evan Pederson for all of their oral health needs. From comprehensive services including emergency dentistry to preventive care, restorative treatment, and advanced cosmetic solutions, our team has you covered.
Call us at (512) 777-0866 or request an appointment online.