Swelling could also be a symptom of gum disease or several other conditions. A swollen face should be treated immediately; if it results from an infection, bacteria can spread to other body areas, leading to severe health problems. The first step is to determine the cause of the swelling so an effective treatment plan can be implemented.

Causes of facial swelling

Abscesses are a common cause of facial swelling and may be accompanied by:

  • Red gum tissue or facial skin
  • Heat and cold sensitivity
  • A bad taste in the mouth
  • Fever
  • Intense, ongoing pain

Swollen gums and facial swelling can also be a sign of:

  • Gum disease, called gingivitis
  • Malnutrition
  • An allergic reaction to toothpaste, tooth whitening strips, or mouthwash
  • Ill-fitting dentures
  • Food debris lodged in the gums
  • A side effect of some medications
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How is facial swelling treated?

As with any oral or dental problem, the first step is a thorough examination to identify the cause of the problem. It may be necessary to complete a course of antibiotics before dental work is performed. While the antibiotic medication cannot resolve a damaged tooth, it can address gum swelling and discomfort, after which treatment on the tooth can be achieved. 

Dental abscess treatments

Most dental abscesses develop at the base of a tooth and require intervention to resolve. The infection may be in the gum or may have entered the tooth. The treatment will reflect the location of the infection.

Possible dental treatments include:

Root canal

In most cases, a tooth can be saved by performing a root canal to remove the infected material inside the tooth and replace it with dental material. 

Root canal with crown

A damaged tooth may require both a root canal and a crown to restore the health of the tooth and gum affected by the infection.

Dental implants

If the infected tooth is seriously damaged and cannot be restored, a dental implant can be placed even with the most advanced treatments. These implants look and function like regular, natural teeth and help protect against bone loss.

Incision

In some cases, an incision can be made in the gum to allow the abscess to drain.

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Gingivitis treatments

The symptoms of gingivitis include:

  • Swollen, puffy, red gums that bleed when brushing and flossing
  • Bad breath
  • Receding gums
  • Gum sensitivity

The treatments for the condition will vary, based on the extent of the disease, but can include:

  • Professional dental cleaning: A thorough dental cleaning will remove plaque, tartar, and other debris with root planing or scaling. 
  • Altering dental restorations: If dental restorations make it challenging to keep your teeth clean and contribute to gum disease, they must be modified.
  • A comprehensive home-care plan: Caring for your gums when treating gingivitis is essential, and at ConfiDental in Beverly Hills, we will guide you regarding how to maintain the health of your gums. We may advise you to use special mouthwash and receive professional cleanings every three months rather than six, along with more frequent brushing and flossing.

Why choose ConfiDental in Beverly Hills?

At ConfiDental, Dr. Massaband understands that it can be challenging to schedule a dental appointment, particularly for her busy professional clients. She delivers world-class care in a private, luxury practice, offering concierge-style care on and off regular business hours. Her scope of practice covers all aspects of dentistry, including general, cosmetic, and advanced. Dr. Massaband thrives on helping her patients achieve optimal oral care and the highest satisfaction, comfort, and personalized care. For a talented dental practitioner with exceptional skills in all aspects of modern dentistry, contact ConfiDental. 

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