Our teeth are often subjected to various things, treatments, and situations; they suffer different severe results in the process. From breaking to chipping to being discoloured and, even worse, being infected, these are some of the problems that the teeth may face in the long run.
Having a tooth infection does not necessarily mean that your teeth are bad; the problem could be in the gums, the nerves in the root or the enamel itself. Whichever part is affected, it is a bad idea to leave it untreated.
How dangerous can a tooth infection be?
When a tooth is infected, it can become severe if unattended or if the infection is not treated. This is one reason why oral health is essential, and lots of emphasis is placed on it. If you notice any symptom associated with tooth infection or abscess, you should set up an appointment with your dentist for an examination.
What are the signs of an infected tooth?
Depending on the cause of the infection and the type of infection it is, the symptoms may vary. However, the common symptoms of tooth infection include the following;
· Pain
· Swelling in the jaw
· Bad breath
· Swollen glands of the neck
· Bitter taste in the mouth
· Fever
· Sensitivity to hot or cold food
· Swelling of the gums
Is a tooth infection severe enough to kill you?
If the infection is treated and adequate dental care is taken, the infection cannot do severe damage. However, if an abscess is not treated, there is the possibility that it can kill you. According to reports on tooth abscesses, about 66 patients out of 61,439 died due to tooth infection.
What are the causes of tooth infection or abscess?
In several cases, tooth infection is caused by untreated cavities. This is why it is essential to practice good oral hygiene and always consult your dentist whenever there is a problem – it will help treat any problem before it gets worse.
Can a teeth infection go septic?
The answer is yes. You might be surprised how quickly an infection in the tooth can worsen if not treated and end up affecting overall health. It could go septic, which is when the blood becomes infected, as a response to a threatening and deadly infection. Sepsis is a problematic situation that can kill or disable its victims.
How does an infected tooth become septic?
Infections can develop anywhere in the mouth, such as the gums, lips, cheeks, palate, tongue and within or below the teeth. An infection within or below the teeth can be caused by tooth decay or a broken tooth and may cause the pulp, which contains blood vessels, connective tissues and large nerves, to become infected. When the pulp becomes infected, bacteria can move out of the tooth and spread to the bone or tissue below, forming an abscess. If the abscess is diagnosed early, treatment is easier and ensures survival.
What are the symptoms of sepsis to look out for?
As stated earlier, early diagnosis is key, and the symptoms of sepsis to look out for include;
· High fever
· Rapid heart rate
· Breathing difficulty
When you notice the following symptoms, it means that the sepsis is progressing and can be severe if not treated;
· Mottled skin
· Disorientation
Can a tooth infection affect the brain?
A tooth abscess can lead to meningitis, a life-threatening condition that causes inflammation of the membranes near the brain and spinal cord. People with a compromised immune system are at greater risk of developing this condition.
What are the dangers associated with tooth infection?
There is another condition that develops when the bacterial infection is not treated or controlled. It is known as Ludwig’s Angina and is a rare skin infection that occurs on the floor of the mouth, just underneath the tongue. It occurs after a tooth abscess, a collection of pus in the centre of the tooth. It is more common in adults than in children, and early or prompt treatment will guarantee full recovery. If left untreated, it can cause extreme swelling of the airway, leading to suffocation. The symptoms of Ludwig’s Angina include;
· Fatigue
· Speaking difficulty
· Breathing difficulty
· Fever
· Weakness
· Confusion
· Neck and ear pain.
It can be treated with antibiotics to clear the bacteria from the airways.
How is tooth infection treated?
When you notice the symptoms of an infection in your tooth, see your dentist immediately. It should be treated as soon as possible to reduce the risk of complications or sepsis. While you wait to see your dentist, saltwater mouth rinses are quite helpful in easing the pain and discomfort. If there is an abscess, your dentist will treat it by either draining it, performing a root canal treatment, or extracting the tooth. Antibiotics are also helpful in treatment.
For more information on treating an infected tooth, contact us at Emergency Dentist London through email or phone call, or visit our site to book your appointment for treating tooth infection. Get in touch with us today.
