Swollen Cheek

Dental emergencies can be infectious, traumatic, or post-procedural. Infection can involve bacteria, viruses, or fungi; trauma includes a fractured, loosened, or knocked-out tooth; treatment can also lead to pulpal or periodontal problems.

Brush with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily, spit without rinsing afterwards, and clean between the teeth every day with floss or interdental brushes.

Assessment begins with looking and feeling for redness, swelling, and pus. Radiographs can reveal caries, a periapical abscess, bone loss, or a third-molar problem beyond what is visible.

For a dental abscess, treatment drains the pus. A tooth that caused the abscess may need root canal treatment or removal; local anaesthetic is used, and painkillers or antibiotics may follow.

Daily toothbrushing and flossing help prevent dental infections. In contact sports, a custom mouthguard decreases traumatic dental injuries, while smoking cessation and diabetes control reduce infectious-emergency risks.

A swollen cheek may occur alongside pain in a tooth or gum, heat or cold sensitivity, a bad taste, chewing difficulty, swollen neck glands, and a high temperature.

Dental infections can extend into deep neck spaces, facial sinuses, or the brain. Spread into these areas can cause life-threatening complications, including airway compromise.