[18F] With sudden onset of swollen cheek and painful gum

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Pericoronitis: This is an inflammation of the gum tissue around the wisdom teeth, which are the last teeth to come in, usually between ages 17 and 25. It can cause symptoms like pain, swelling, and difficulty opening the mouth.

  • Treatment typically involves good oral hygiene, pain relief, and sometimes antibiotics. In some cases, the wisdom tooth may need to be removed.

• Dental Abscess: This is a pocket of pus that forms in the tooth or gum due to a bacterial infection. It can cause severe toothache, facial swelling, and difficulty opening the mouth.

  • Treatment typically involves draining the abscess and treating the infection, often with antibiotics. In some cases, the affected tooth may need to be treated or removed.

• Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder: This is a condition affecting the joint that connects the jaw to the skull. It can cause pain and difficulty opening the mouth, among other symptoms.

  • Treatment typically involves pain relief, physical therapy, and sometimes dental treatments.

What you can do

While waiting for a formal assessment from a healthcare professional, you can try the following:

1. Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. This can help prevent further infection.
2. Use over-the-counter pain relief: Non-prescription pain relievers can help manage the pain. Always follow the instructions on the package.
3. Apply a cold compress: This can help reduce swelling. Apply it to the affected area for 15 minutes at a time.
4. Avoid hard or chewy foods: These can exacerbate the pain.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Fever
• Rapid swelling of the face or neck
• Severe, uncontrolled pain

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.