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Can a Tooth Infection Affect Another Part of Your Body?

Leaving an abscessed tooth untreated can lead to serious, even life-threatening conditions.

An infected tooth can lead to an abscess. If left untreated, it can affect other parts of your body. What are the symptoms of a tooth infection? And what leads to it spreading to another part of your body?

If you are worried about a potential tooth infection, call The Dental Anesthesia Center. Don’t wait for the symptoms to disappear or risk a secondary infection.

Causes of Tooth Infections

A tooth infection is caused when bacteria enter the inner tooth by means of a cavity or chip in the tooth. An infection can lead to an abscess, or pocket of pus, at the tip of the tooth’s root. The dental pulp is the most susceptible to infection as it contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. If an abscess is left untreated, it can degenerate into more dangerous health issues. The infection can spread to surrounding bones and supporting tissues if not immediately treated.

Common causes of tooth infections include:

Cavities

Broken tooth

Damaged dental work

Excess plaque

Dry mouth

Compromised immune system

Injured teeth or gums

Gum disease and gingivitis

Poor dental hygiene

Smoking or chewing tobacco

Symptoms of a Tooth Infection Spreading

First of all, it’s rare for tooth infections to spread to other parts of the body. An abscess would have to go untreated for weeks or months to spread. This is typically an area of concern for special needs individuals, such as those with Alzheimer’s, autism, or an autoimmune disease.

If you or your loved one have a tooth infection, how do you know if it’s affecting other parts of the body? Symptoms to watch for include:

Feeling sick

Swelling of gums, neck, cheeks, or tongue

Fever

Rancid taste in the mouth

Constant bad breath

Difficulty swallowing

Higher heart rate

Tender or swollen lymph nodes

Increased breathing rate

Confusion

If you believe you have developed a systemic infection from a tooth abscess, call your dentist immediately or go to the nearest emergency room!

(11/21/2024)
by The Dental Anesthesia Center

More Information: https://www.dentalsleepstlouis.com/can-a-tooth-infection-affect-another-part-of-your-body.html

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