Indianapolis Emergency Dentists Discuss What to Do with Severe Swelling
Severe swelling in the mouth or face is often a sign that something more serious is going on—typically, a dental infection. At Westside Family Dental, your health and safety are our top priorities. If you're experiencing significant swelling, it’s important to act quickly and seek care from a trusted provider. In most cases, swelling is the body’s response to an infection, such as an abscessed tooth or gum infection. These infections can progress rapidly and may cause not only pain, but also complications like difficulty swallowing, trouble breathing, or swelling that spreads to your eyes or neck. If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, do not ignore them.
During our normal business hours, we encourage you to call our dentist office in Indianapolis right away. We will do our best to get you seen as soon as possible for an emergency dental evaluation. Our experienced team of doctors will assess the cause of the swelling, determine the appropriate treatment, and help relieve your pain. If the swelling becomes severe and our dentist office in Indianapolis is closed, it may be necessary to go directly to the hospital emergency room. Waiting too long could allow the infection to spread further and potentially cause life-threatening complications. Hospitals can provide IV antibiotics or assist with airway management if needed.
Please remember: never apply heat to a swollen or infected area. Heat can actually accelerate the spread of infection by increasing blood flow to the area. Instead, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek and seek professional care immediately. In many cases, patients with facial swelling will be prescribed a course of antibiotics. These medications help control the infection, but they are not a permanent fix. Once the initial symptoms subside, it’s important to follow up with our dentist office in Indianapolis to treat the underlying cause—whether that’s a root canal, extraction, or deep cleaning. At Westside Family Dental, we’re here to support you through every dental emergency. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have concerns about swelling or any other urgent dental issue. Your comfort, safety, and long-term oral health are what matter most.
