swollen inner cheek pain - #27754
I am dealing with this weird issue that’s been bothering me for a while. For the past week, I’ve had this swollen inner cheek pain that I just can’t shake off. It started out as a small irritation, maybe from biting the inside of my cheek or something, but now it feels like the pain just won’t go away. At times, it feels like I got punched in the face or something, and I’ve noticed that it’s kinda hard to chew my food. I tried gargling with salt water thinking maybe it’s just some inflammation, but honestly, I’m not seeing much difference. I even looked in the mirror to see if there’s any visible swelling, and it does look a bit puffy, which freaks me out. I’m starting to worry it could be an infection or something worse. Like, has anyone else had swollen inner cheek pain for no reason? Should I be seeing a dentist or a doctor? I don't know if should wait it out or what. My diet hasn’t changed, and I’m not aware of any allergies. If you guys have any advice or similar experiences with swollen inner cheek pain, that’d be super helpful. I’m just worried that it’s something serious and don’t wanna ignore it. Any thoughts anyone?
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Doctors' responses
Swollen inner cheek pain can definitely be uncomfortable and worrying, especially if it’s not resolving. There are a few potential causes to consider. The most common one, as you’ve mentioned, is accidental cheek biting which can indeed lead to some swelling and pain, though this usually heals with time. If it’s persistent, you may want to consider the possibility of an infection or abscess in one of the teeth close to the area. This would require a dentist to evaluate it properly, as dental issues can sometimes be quite painful and prolonged. Another possibility is a canker sore, which might have formed due to stress, minor injury, or certain food irritants. These can be painful but typically heal within a week or two. Yet, since you’ve already tried salt water rinses without much relief, examining other options is a good idea.
It’s crucial to consider that prolonged swelling and pain could sometimes point to a blocked salivary gland or even less commonly, to more serious conditions like oral cancer, though that’s less likely in the absence of other symptoms like persistent bleeding, difficulty swallowing, or weight loss. Given that your discomfort isn’t improving, I would recommend seeing a dentist initially to rule out dental causes. They can offer targeted treatment and if needed, refer you to a doctor for further assessment. Meanwhile, you could continue with salt water rinses and ensure good oral hygiene, but avoid any harsh mouthwashes as they might further irritate the area. If your condition worsens or you notice any new worrying symptoms, don’t delay seeking further medical advice. It’s always better to be proactive about your health concerns.
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