Dental Infection & Swelling in Los Angeles
Swelling, a bad taste, fever or pressure around a tooth can signal infection. Professional assessment is important even if pain is manageable.
Some swelling is a medical emergency
Difficulty breathing or swallowing, severe or rapidly increasing facial swelling and significant systemic illness require immediate medical attention. Call 911 or go to the ER.
Do not squeeze or lance the area. Home remedies and leftover antibiotics do not remove the source of a dental infection.
Definitive care addresses the dental cause
After examination and imaging, a dentist may recommend drainage, root canal treatment, extraction or another procedure. Antibiotics may be appropriate in some cases but do not replace dental treatment.
Tell the provider about allergies, medications, medical conditions and any fever. Ask what to do if symptoms worsen before or after the appointment.