# Facial Swelling and Tooth Pain: Dentist or Hospital?
Swelling near a tooth is one of the more worrying dental symptoms. Sometimes the dental office is the right place; sometimes a hospital is. This article explains the difference, using the guidance from Smiles By Bis, an office that provides Emergency Dental Care in Oakville.
Contents
# Why swelling matters
Swelling around the gums or face often points to infection or inflammation. It should not be ignored, even if the pain settles. An infection that seems to calm down can still be present.
# Go to hospital if
The practice says to seek immediate medical care for:
- Facial swelling with difficulty breathing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Swelling spreading toward the eye or neck
- Symptoms that feel severe
In these situations, a hospital emergency department is the right first stop.
# Call the dental office if
- Swelling is limited to the gum around one tooth
- There is a bad taste or tenderness near a tooth
- A tooth hurts when you bite
- Swelling has started but you are otherwise well
The emergency page suggests using a cold compress and calling the office. The team will help determine how urgent the situation is.
# What happens next
At an emergency visit, the dentist finds the cause, takes an X-ray if needed and treats the immediate concern. Some causes, such as a problem wisdom tooth, may lead to a discussion about wisdom teeth assessment. If more treatment is needed, the options are explained and you decide on the next step.
# At home while you wait
- Use a cold compress on the cheek, not heat
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed
- Keep drinking fluids
- Watch for any of the hospital warning signs above
# A useful reference
The Canadian Dental Association lists warning signs such as swelling, pain and bleeding gums, with notes on possible causes.
# Contact
Smiles By Bis is at 710 Dorval Dr #220, Oakville, ON L6K 3V7, and the phone number is (905) 338-6684. The office sees new patients for emergencies. Hours are Monday to Wednesday 9am to 5pm and Thursday 9am to 3pm.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Details about Smiles By Bis come from smilesbybis.com; please check the website or call the office for current information.