How to Handle Severe Swelling From a Dental Infection

Severe swelling from a dental infection can be alarming and painful. Whether caused by an abscessed tooth, gum infection, or post-procedure complications, swelling is often a sign of an underlying issue that requires immediate attention.

At Smyrna Dental Studio, we provide emergency dental care to help patients manage infections and prevent serious complications. In this guide, we’ll cover the causes, symptoms, and emergency treatments for severe swelling due to a dental infection, along with steps you can take at home before seeing a dentist.

What Causes Severe Swelling in a Dental Infection?

A dental infection occurs when bacteria invade the soft tissues inside or around a tooth. The body responds to this infection with inflammation, leading to swelling, pain, and potential complications if left untreated. Common causes include:

• Tooth Abscess – A pus-filled infection caused by deep decay, trauma, or gum disease.

• Periodontal Infection – Severe gum disease (periodontitis) that leads to swollen gums and infection.

• Impacted Wisdom Teeth – When wisdom teeth become trapped under the gumline, they can become infected and swollen.

• Post-Extraction Infection – Sometimes, bacteria enter the site of a recent tooth extraction, causing swelling and discomfort.

• Failed Root Canal – If a root canal treatment does not completely remove infected tissue, an infection can return, leading to swelling.

When to Seek Emergency Dental Care

While mild swelling may resolve on its own with home care, severe swelling requires immediate attention. Call an emergency dentist if you experience:

• Swelling that spreads to your face, jaw, or neck

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing (this is a medical emergency – go to the ER immediately)

• Fever over 101°F

• Intense, throbbing pain that doesn’t improve

• Pus discharge or a foul taste in your mouth

• Swollen lymph nodes under the jaw or neck

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an emergency dental appointment at Smyrna Dental Studio today.

How to Reduce Severe Swelling at Home (Before Seeing a Dentist)

While waiting for your dental appointment, follow these steps to help reduce swelling and manage discomfort:

1. Apply a Cold Compress

• Use an ice pack wrapped in a cloth and apply it to the swollen area for 15-20 minutes every hour.

• This helps reduce inflammation and numb pain.

2. Rinse With Warm Salt Water

• Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gently rinse your mouth.

• Salt water helps draw out infection and reduce bacteria in the mouth.

3. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

• Ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help reduce pain and swelling.

• Avoid aspirin if there is bleeding, as it can increase blood flow.

4. Avoid Lying Flat While Sleeping

• Keep your head elevated with pillows to prevent fluid buildup in the infected area.

• Sleeping upright can help reduce swelling.

5. Stay Hydrated and Avoid Alcohol or Tobacco

• Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins.

• Avoid alcohol and smoking, as they can worsen swelling and delay healing.

How Dentists Treat Severe Swelling From an Infection

Once you arrive at Smyrna Dental Studio, our team will determine the best course of treatment. Depending on the severity of the infection, treatment options may include:

1. Draining the Abscess

• If there is a pus-filled abscess, your dentist may drain it to remove the infection and reduce swelling.

2. Prescribing Antibiotics

• If the infection has spread, antibiotics will be prescribed to fight bacteria and prevent further complications.

3. Performing a Root Canal or Extraction

• If the infection is caused by deep tooth decay, a root canal may be performed to clean out the infected pulp and seal the tooth.

• If the tooth is beyond saving, an extraction may be necessary.

4. Treating Gum Infections

• For periodontal infections, deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing may be used to remove bacteria from below the gumline.

If you need emergency treatment, contact us today to schedule an urgent appointment.

Potential Complications If Left Untreated

Ignoring severe swelling from a dental infection can lead to serious and life-threatening complications, including:

• Sepsis – A severe, body-wide infection that can be fatal if untreated.

• Ludwig’s Angina – A deep neck infection that can restrict breathing.

• Osteomyelitis – Infection that spreads to the jawbone.

• Tooth Loss – Severe infections can cause irreparable damage, leading to tooth extractions.

Don’t wait—seek immediate dental care if you have an infected tooth with severe swelling.

Preventing Dental Infections and Swelling

The best way to prevent severe swelling from a dental infection is through good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Follow these tips to keep your teeth and gums healthy:

1. Brush and Floss Daily

• Brush twice a day and floss at least once daily to remove plaque and bacteria.

2. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

• Routine checkups every 6 months help detect and treat infections before they become severe.

3. Treat Cavities and Gum Disease Early

• Don’t ignore tooth pain, sensitivity, or bleeding gums—early treatment can prevent infections from developing.

4. Avoid Smoking and Excessive Sugar

• Smoking weakens your immune system and increases your risk of infections.

• Sugary foods fuel harmful bacteria, leading to tooth decay and gum disease.

Why Choose Smyrna Dental Studio for Emergency Dental Care?

At Smyrna Dental Studio, we provide urgent care for dental infections and swelling with:

✅ Same-day emergency appointments
✅ Advanced technology for fast and accurate diagnosis
✅ Sedation options for a comfortable experience
✅ Experienced emergency dentists trained in infection management
✅ Flexible financing options for affordable treatment

If you’re experiencing severe dental swelling, don’t wait! Schedule an emergency visit now to get the care you need.