Any type of dental or facial swelling could indicate a serious condition. At Dr. Kernstock's practice we recommend if your pain is accompanied by swelling, call our office immediately 989-893-4381to see the dentist, or seek treatment at a hospital emergency room. Swelling generally only occurs when there is an infection, and left untreated for any amount of time, the infection can spread to other tissues. With infection, you may also notice foul breath, and discoloration or pus on the soft tissues. Because of the complex anatomy of the head and neck, infections in this area are particularly dangerous for both oral and overall health.