Recognizing and Responding to Facial Swelling in Children

It can be scary to see your child with a swollen mouth or face, especially if it happens suddenly or seems to be getting worse. But did you know that in many cases, swelling in these areas can indicate a dental emergency? Here’s what you need to know about these situations and why it’s always in your best interest to give your child’s emergency dentist a call quickly.

Common Causes of Facial Swelling

There are several reasons why your child may develop swelling around their mouth, jaw, or cheeks. Some common causes include:

• Dental abscess – This is a bacterial infection that’s often caused by untreated tooth decay or trauma. Abscesses can lead to pus buildup and major swelling.
• Injury or trauma – A fall, sports injury, or bump to the mouth or face can lead to bruising and swelling, even if there’s no visible bleeding.
• Allergic reaction – In some cases, swelling may be related to an allergic response to food, medicine, or some other circumstance.

Why Seeking Emergency Care Is Important

Facial or mouth swelling should always be taken seriously, especially if it develops suddenly, appears to be getting worse, or is causing discomfort. If your child is experiencing significant pain, has a visible abscess or signs of infection such as pus, or develops a fever along with the swelling, it’s important to contact their pediatric dentist right away. Swelling that interferes with normal oral functions, such as eating or swallowing, can indicate a much more serious underlying problem. Even if the swelling follows an injury to the face or mouth, or if your child simply seems unwell, it’s still best to have them seen promptly. Once you arrive, your child’s emergency dentist will ask you both about symptoms, pain level, and other details before quickly administering treatment.

Preventing Dental Emergencies Is Always Preferred

While not every emergency can be avoided, there are some steps you can take to reduce your child’s risk of developing serious dental issues. Start by making sure that they are brushing and flossing every single day, no exceptions. Additionally, they should be seeing their dentist routinely for preventive care; that way, their provider can address cavities or other issues early on before they begin causing pain or complications. It’s also a wise idea to ensure that if your child plays sports, they wear a mouth guard before hitting the field.

Facial or mouth swelling in children can be alarming—but acting quickly can prevent complications and help your child feel better, faster.

About the Author

Dr. Allen Pearson and our talented team have served the needs of families in Wylie for years, offering a wide range of pediatric dental services, including emergency dentistry. Dr. Pearson is a board-certified pediatric dentist and completed his education at the Creighton University School of Dentistry—you’d be hard-pressed to find someone more qualified or passionate about helping children’s smiles! If you have any questions about the blog, or need to schedule an urgent appointment for your child, please reach out today for assistance. Telephone: (972) 429-7070.