What Causes Swelling Around The Ear Post Placement Of Braces?

Posted on Sun, 21 Aug 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 21 Aug 2016 Answered on

Wed, 7 Sep 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : My 14 year old granddaughter got braces on her top teeth about 10 days ago. Now she has swelling in front and behind her ear. Took her to urgent care and does not appear to be infection. Is this common from braces and is it dangerous?

Answered by Dr. Honey Arora (29 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Not common after braces..

Detailed Answer:
Hi..
Welcome to HEALTHCARE MAGIC..

I have gone through your query and can understand your concerns..

As per your complain swelling infront and behind the ear are not a common finding after placing braces..

It can be probably swollen lymph nodes that are commonly due to infection..

However if infection is not suspected, you should get an x ray or MRI scan done so that the exact cause is ruled out and treated accordingly..

As of now you can continue doing cool compresses and if there is pain anti inflammatory painkiller like Ibuprofen or Diclofenac can be given..

As of now it does not seems dangerous and correct status can be ruled out after radiographic investigations and a complete blood picture..

Any further questions are welcome..

Hope this helps..

Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Honey Arora (26 minutes later)

thank you, I was hoping it was just the braces but guess I better have her seen by dentist and doctor tomorrow. Thanks again

Answered by Dr. Honey Arora (11 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Less chances of it being due to braces..

Detailed Answer:
Hi..
Welcome back..

As per your query there are less chances of the swelling of being due to braces and more probable cause is infection.
Consult her Orthodontist and get her evaluated..

Hope this helps..

Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Priyanka G Raj