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Warning-sign checks

Prognathism: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency care for severe trouble breathing, inability to swallow saliva, rapidly increasing facial or throat swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or a major facial injury.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Children with an underbite can be assessed before growth is complete, even if treatment is not started right away.

    Seek a prompt medical appointment if your jaw or facial features are becoming more prominent during adulthood.

    This is especially important if you also notice enlarging hands or feet, wider tooth spacing, headaches, heavy sweating, or changes in vision.

    Contact your dental or surgical team promptly after jaw treatment if pain or swelling is getting worse rather than better, you develop a fever, the bite suddenly changes, or you cannot maintain fluid intake.

    These symptoms need urgent attention regardless of your usual jaw shape.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine dental or orthodontic assessment if your teeth do not meet properly, chewing is difficult, teeth are wearing unevenly, or you are concerned about your jaw or facial growth.

The article also says

Stable prognathism is not an emergency.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Prognathism. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.