Published on: 6/12/2025
Could a tooth infection cause my face to tingle?
Yes, a tooth infection can sometimes cause tingling in the face, especially near the affected area, due to nerve irritation or inflammation.
Explanation
A tooth infection, also called a dental abscess, can cause swelling and inflammation that puts pressure on nearby nerves. This pressure can lead to sensations like tingling, numbness, or even pain in parts of the face near the infected tooth.
If you have a tooth infection, you might also notice other signs such as toothache, swelling in your gums or face, redness, or fever. Treating the infection usually helps relieve the tingling and other symptoms.
If you experience tingling along with severe pain, swelling that spreads, fever, or difficulty opening your mouth, it’s important to see a dentist or doctor promptly. These can be signs that the infection is serious and needs urgent treatment.
(References)
- Kohjitani A, Miyawaki T, Kasuya K, & Shimada M. (2002). Sympathetic activity-mediated neuropathic facial pain .... Cranio : the journal of craniomandibular practice, 12002830.
- Brooks JK, Schwartz KG, Ro AS, & Lin CD. (2017). Numb chin syndrome associated with vertical root fracture .... Quintessence international (Berlin, Germany : 1985), 28168238.
- Ngeow WC. (1998). Lower lip numbness due to peri-radicular dental infection. The Medical journal of Malaysia, 10971994.
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