Facial swelling from a tooth infection is never something to ignore. It usually means the infection has moved beyond the tooth and into the surrounding tissues — and in rare cases, it can spread quickly and become life-threatening. Infections in the face and neck can change within hours, sometimes affecting breathing or entering the bloodstream.
At Switch Dental, our hospital-trained dentists have advanced experience in managing urgent dental infections. We know how quickly these situations can escalate and will act fast to keep you safe.
If you notice swelling in your face, jaw, or neck, call us immediately. If you are struggling to breathe or swallow, go directly to Hutt Hospital Emergency Department.
Swelling linked to dental infection isn’t just about puffiness or pain. Warning signs that things may be more urgent include:
- Swelling that worsens over hours rather than days
- Trouble swallowing saliva or breathing comfortably
- Swelling spreading toward the eye or down into the neck
- Fever, chills, or generally feeling unwell
- Severe or persistent pain, even if it suddenly improves (sometimes meaning the nerve has died)
These are signs the infection is moving beyond the tooth and needs immediate attention.
Our focus is always your safety and comfort. Treatment will depend on how advanced the swelling is, but may involve:
- Immediate assessment and imaging – digital X-rays or 3D scans to see the full picture
- Relieving pressure and infection – sometimes cleaning the area around the tooth to allow drainage
- Antibiotics – to help stabilise infection, usually alongside dental treatment rather than instead of it
- Treating the source tooth – with root canal therapy or removal, depending on the situation
- Hospital referral – if there’s risk to your airway or the infection is severe, we’ll coordinate directly with Hutt Hospital specialists
You’ll always know what’s happening, why it’s being done, and what the next steps are.
Will antibiotics fix it on their own?
Not usually. Antibiotics can reduce infection but the source tooth needs treatment to stop it recurring.
How fast can swelling become dangerous?
Sometimes in just a few hours — that’s why we take it seriously even if it doesn’t “look too bad” yet.
Do I always need hospital care?
Not always. Many cases can be managed safely here, but if your airway is at risk or the swelling is spreading rapidly, hospital treatment is the safest option.
Why Switch Dental?
Hospital-trained dentists with advanced training in urgent care and infection management
Modern diagnostic tools – including 3D scanning and digital X-rays
Clear and calm guidance – we’ll explain what’s urgent, what can wait, and where hospital care may be needed
Ongoing care – once the immediate risk is managed, we’ll help prevent the problem from coming back
