How Long Until A Tooth Infection kills You

An untreated tooth infection may seem like a minor issue, but it can escalate into serious problems and spread to other parts of the body. A tooth infection indicates that bacteria have entered the soft tissue and are causing harm. Timely treatment allows the body to heal, but if left untreated, the infection can worsen. Eventually, the immune system might become overwhelmed and unable to control the infection.

What Is A Tooth Infection?

A tooth infection targets the tooth’s pulp and can affect anyone, though it is more common among certain groups like seniors and those with chipped or broken teeth. Additionally, individuals with poor oral hygiene are at a higher risk of developing a tooth infection.

Symptoms Of A Tooth Infection

Pain is the most noticeable symptom of a tooth infection. This pain can be throbbing or constant and often intensifies when chewing. Other common signs that may indicate a tooth infection include:

• Swelling in the face, gums, or cheek
• Sensitivity to hot or cold food
• Pus around the affected tooth
• Bad mouth odor
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Difficulty opening your mouth
• Trouble chewing

Dentists categorise dental infections into three types: periodontal, gingival, and periapical. Periodontal infections impact the gums and the supporting bone. Gingival infections affect both the gums and the teeth. Periapical infections, however, occur at the tip of the tooth root.

Is A Tooth Infection Life-Threatening?

Untreated dental infections can potentially lead to death by spreading to vital organs such as the heart, sinuses, and bloodstream, resulting in severe complications. The timeline for fatal outcomes varies depending on the specific complications that arise. For instance, conditions like sepsis can lead to death within 28 days, while other complications may take several months to become life-threatening. Some of the tooth infection-related issues that can result in death include:

• Sepsis: Bacteria from untreated dental infections can enter the bloodstream, leading to sepsis.
• Osteomyelitis: Untreated dental infections can spread to the jawbone, resulting in osteomyelitis, which may cause systemic infection or sepsis.
• Brain abscess: In some cases, untreated tooth infections can spread to the brain, causing a brain abscess and potential brain damage.
• Endocarditis: Dental infections can lead to endocarditis, a condition affecting the heart’s lining and valves, potentially resulting in heart failure and death.
• Mediastinitis: Dental infections left untreated may affect the mediastinum, the area between the lungs, impacting the respiratory system.
• Ludwig’s angina: Tooth infections can also cause Ludwig’s angina, a condition affecting the floor of the mouth, leading to respiratory issues and sepsis.

Preventing Tooth Infections with Regular Dental Checkups

Yes, an untreated tooth infection can potentially be fatal, but the risk can be minimised through regular dental checkups. During these appointments, your dentist will assess your teeth and gums for any signs of infection. Following the examination, your dentist may recommend treatments such as fillings, root canals, or extractions to address the infection. Additionally, routine teeth cleanings are essential to remove plaque and tartar, significant contributors to tooth infections. It’s advisable to visit your dentist every six months to maintain optimal oral health.

Select Ingenious Dentistry For Peace Of Mind!

Ingenious Dentistry has been proudly serving Houston, TX, for three decades, offering a comprehensive range of dental services. Our expertise encompasses various dental procedures, including both cosmetic and general dentistry. Additionally, we provide emergency dental care to address urgent issues such as severe tooth pain.

FAQs About Tooth Infection

Q: What is a Tooth Infection?

A: A tooth infection targets the tooth’s pulp and can affect anyone, though it is more common among certain groups like seniors and those with chipped or broken teeth. Additionally, individuals with poor oral hygiene are at a higher risk of developing a tooth infection.

Q: What are the Signs of an Infected Tooth?

A: Pain is the most noticeable symptom of a tooth infection. Other common signs include swelling in the face, sensitivity to hot or cold food, pus around the affected tooth, bad mouth odour, fever, swollen lymph nodes, difficulty opening your mouth, and trouble chewing.

Q: Can a Tooth Infection Kill You?

A: Untreated dental infections can potentially lead to death by spreading to vital organs such as the heart, sinuses, and bloodstream. The timeline for fatal outcomes varies depending on the specific complications that arise.

Conclusion

An untreated tooth infection might initially seem like a minor inconvenience but has the potential to develop into serious health issues if neglected. Regular dental checkups play a crucial role in detecting and addressing infections early, thereby preventing severe complications. Through timely treatment and maintaining proper oral hygiene practices, the risk of fatal outcomes from tooth infections can be significantly minimised. At Ingenious Dentistry, we prioritise offering comprehensive dental care to safeguard the well-being of our patients in Houston, TX, and beyond.

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