Jaw pain can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience, and a variety of factors can cause it. Two common causes of jaw pain are seasonal allergies and dental emergencies. While both can result in similar symptoms, it’s essential to understand the differences between the two in order to address and treat the issue properly. In this blog, our San Antonio emergency dentists discuss the key differences between jaw pain from seasonal allergies and jaw pain from a dental emergency.
When to Contact Your Pharmacist or Physician
Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever, can cause a variety of symptoms, including congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes. However, many people are surprised to learn that seasonal allergies can also cause jaw pain and may be a risk factor for TMD. Due to allergies, the sinuses may swell and cause inflammation, which can put pressure on the jaw and cause discomfort.
If you are experiencing jaw pain due to seasonal allergies, you may also experience other symptoms, such as a runny nose, itchy throat, and watery eyes. A feeling of pressure or fullness in the jaw area may also accompany the pain. In most cases, the pain will subside once the allergies are treated and the sinuses are no longer inflamed.
When to Visit Our San Antonio Emergency Dentist
On the other hand, jaw pain can also be a sign of a dental emergency. This type of discomfort is usually more severe and persistent than jaw pain caused by allergies. It may also be accompanied by other symptoms such as a toothache, swelling, and difficulty opening or closing the mouth.
A dental emergency can be caused by a variety of issues, including an infected or cracked tooth, a jaw injury, or a dental abscess. If you are experiencing severe jaw pain and suspect it may be a dental emergency, it’s vital to seek immediate medical attention from our San Antonio emergency dentist.
How to Tell the Difference
It can be challenging to determine whether seasonal allergies or a dental emergency causes your jaw pain. However, there are a few key differences to look out for.
Seasonal Allergies
If your jaw pain is accompanied by other allergy symptoms, such as a runny nose and itchy eyes, it is likely caused by allergies. The treatment for jaw pain caused by seasonal allergies and a dental emergency will differ. For allergies, over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants can help alleviate symptoms and reduce inflammation in the sinuses.
Dental Emergency
Conversely, if the pain is severe and persistent and is accompanied by other dental symptoms, it may be a dental emergency. Our San Antonio emergency dentist prescribes treatment depending on the root cause of the pain. This may include a root canal, a round of antibiotics, or tooth removal.
If you are unsure of the cause of your jaw pain, it’s always best to consult with a medical professional, such as our San Antonio emergency dentist. He can help determine the cause of your pain, provide emergency dental treatment, or refer you to someone who can prescribe the appropriate care.
Find Fast Relief with the Best San Antonio Emergency Dentist
Although seasonal allergies and dental emergencies can cause jaw pain, it’s essential to understand the differences between the two in order to address and handle the issue properly. If you are experiencing severe or persistent jaw pain, it’s best to consult with a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
However, if you’re confident that you’re experiencing a dental emergency, contact our San Antonio emergency dentist on Wurzbach Pkwy immediately.
