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Last updated: September 10, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Cheek Swelling

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Dental Abscess: This is often the most common cause of cheek swelling due to the high density of teeth and surrounding tissues in the cheek area. A dental abscess can cause significant swelling and pain.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Cellulitis: A bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissues that can cause swelling, redness, and warmth of the affected area.
  • Parotid Gland Infection or Inflammation: Infections or inflammatory conditions affecting the parotid gland can lead to cheek swelling.
  • Trauma: Blunt trauma to the cheek can result in swelling due to hematoma or edema.
  • Allergic Reaction: An allergic reaction, such as angioedema, can cause sudden swelling of the cheek.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Ludwig's Angina: A severe infection of the tissues in the neck that can cause swelling of the cheek and floor of the mouth, potentially leading to airway obstruction.
  • Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis: A rare but potentially life-threatening condition where a blood clot forms in the cavernous sinus, which can be a complication of facial infections.
  • Necrotizing Fasciitis: A severe bacterial infection that destroys tissue under the skin, including fat and the tissue covering the muscles (fascia), which can be fatal if not promptly treated.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Sarcoidosis: A condition where inflammatory cells form lumps known as granulomas in various parts of the body, including the face, which can cause swelling.
  • Tuberculosis: Although rare in many parts of the world, tuberculosis can cause swelling and other symptoms in the face if it affects the lymph nodes or other tissues in the cheek area.
  • Salivary Gland Tumors: Both benign and malignant tumors of the salivary glands can cause cheek swelling, though they are less common than other causes.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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