Emergency Dentistry
Dental Swelling Relief — Fast.
Facial swelling can be a sign of a serious dental infection or other urgent problem. We provide prompt, compassionate care in Elgin, IL to determine the cause and help you feel better quickly.
Same-day emergency visits
We’ll see you quickly when you need relief.
Get to the cause
We identify the problem and recommend the right treatment.
Experienced, compassionate team
We’re here to help you feel better, faster.
About Dental Swelling
What causes dental swelling?
Dental swelling is often caused by an infection, such as a dental abscess, but it can also result from trauma, an impacted tooth, or other dental issues. Swelling may affect your gums, face, or jaw and can range from mild to severe. It’s important to get evaluated quickly to prevent the problem from worsening.
Common causes include:
- Dental abscess (tooth infection)
- Infected tooth or root
- Impacted wisdom tooth
- Gum disease (periodontitis)
- Tooth injury or trauma
- Blocked salivary gland
- Allergic reaction (less common)
Our Approach
Relieve the pain. Treat the cause.
Our team will examine your symptoms, identify the source of the swelling and create a treatment plan to relieve your discomfort and prevent future problems.
Comprehensive Exam
We’ll evaluate your symptoms, examine the area, and take X-rays if needed.
Targeted Treatment
We’ll treat the underlying cause, such as an infection or impacted tooth.
Ongoing Care
We’ll monitor your healing and provide follow-up care to keep you healthy.
Treatment Options
Solutions for dental swelling.
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the swelling. Our team may recommend one or more of the following:
- Antibiotics to treat a bacterial infection
- Root canal treatment for an infected tooth
- Drainage of an abscess to relieve pressure
- Treatment for gum disease
- Extraction if a tooth cannot be saved
- Care for an impacted wisdom tooth
When to Seek Emergency Care
Don’t wait if you have dental swelling.
Swelling can be a sign of a serious infection that may worsen without treatment. Contact us right away if you have swelling in your face, gums, or jaw, especially if it’s accompanied by pain, fever, or difficulty opening your mouth.
Signs you may need urgent care:
- Swelling in your face, gums, or jaw
- Persistent or worsening pain
- Fever or chills
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- Redness or warmth in the swollen area
- Swelling that interferes with breathing or swallowing (seek immediate medical care)
Frequently Asked Questions
What does dental swelling mean?
Swelling usually means your body is reacting to an infection or injury, most often a tooth or gum infection. It should always be checked by a dentist.
Will I need antibiotics for dental swelling?
Sometimes. Antibiotics can help control an infection, but they don’t fix the source. Most swelling also needs treatment of the tooth or gum causing it.
How quickly should I be seen for dental swelling?
The same day if possible. Call (847) 289-9900. If you have trouble breathing or swallowing, or swelling that is spreading quickly, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Can dental swelling go away on its own?
Swelling may go down for a while, but an underlying infection usually remains and can return or spread. Please don’t wait for it to clear by itself.