Tooth infections are not something to take lightly. Left untreated, they can lead to further health complications, ranging from the loss of the infected tooth to infections that spread throughout the body. Depending on the severity and the individual’s immune system, a tooth infection can only go untreated for a few days to weeks before it begins to result in serious consequences.
What is a Dental Abscess?
A tooth infection, also known as a dental abscess, occurs when bacteria enter a tooth through cracks, cavities, or gum disease. Once inside, the bacteria grow and lead to a collection of pus in or around the tooth, causing pain, discomfort, and swelling.
Some common symptoms of a tooth infection include:
- Discomfort that may extend to the jaw, neck, or ear.
- Swelling or redness around the gums.
- Pus pockets, indicating the presence of an abscess.
- Foul-smelling breath or a bad taste in the mouth.
- Fever or flu-like symptoms in more severe cases.
If you notice these symptoms, it is important to act quickly by consulting a dentist.
How Do Tooth Infections Develop?
Tooth infections can develop when bacteria are allowed to thrive under specific conditions, such as:
- Tooth decay resulting from poor oral hygiene or sugary diets.
- Cracked or chipped teeth, which make it easier for bacteria to access the inner layers of the tooth.
- Gum disease, where chronic inflammation creates suitable conditions for bacterial growth.
- Untreated dental injuries, such as trauma from sports or accidents.
Maintaining regular dental visits and better oral care habits can greatly reduce your risk of developing infections.
How Long Can You Wait to Treat a Dental Abscess?
Leaving a tooth infection untreated for too long can have consequences. An untreated tooth infection not only damages your teeth but can also cause the bacteria to spread to other areas of your body.
Risks of Delaying Treatment
If a dental abscess is ignored, it could lead to the following serious conditions:
- Tooth loss: Infection may destroy the surrounding bone and gum, leading to the loss of the affected tooth.
- Sinus infection: Due to the sinuses’ proximity to upper teeth, infections can spread to these air-filled cavities, resulting in sinusitis.
- Bone infection: Bacteria could spread to your jawbone, causing osteomyelitis, a painful condition that may require surgery to remove the infected area.
- Ludwig’s Angina: This rare yet severe bacterial infection occurs under the tongue and can obstruct airways, making it life-threatening.
- Meningitis: If the infection reaches the brain or spinal cord, it can result in meningitis, a serious inflammation that needs urgent medical attention.
Given these risks, it is recommended to not delay treatment of a tooth infection. If you’re experiencing symptoms such as fever, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing or swallowing, visit a dentist or a healthcare provider immediately.
Treating a Dental Abscess
The good news? Tooth infections are treatable, especially when caught early. Advancements in modern dentistry have made it easier to eliminate infections and restore oral health.
Some common treatments include:
- Antibiotics: Your dentist may prescribe these to help kill the bacteria causing the infection.
- Drainage of abscess: For cases involving pus buildup, your dentist may make a small incision to release it, providing immediate relief.
- Root canal treatment: If the tooth is infected, the dentist may remove the infected pulp, clean the root canals, and seal the tooth to save it.
- Extraction: When the infection has destroyed too much of the tooth to save it, extraction may be necessary to prevent the spread of bacteria.
Preventing Tooth Infections
Prevention is often easier than treatment. Simple lifestyle habits can help to greatly reduce your risk of developing a tooth infection.
- Maintain good oral health: Brush at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to keep plaque and bacteria at bay.
- Don’t skip regular dental check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings to catch issues before they turn into infections.
- Strengthen your diet and nutrition: Reduce sugary and acidic foods while incorporating calcium-rich foods to improve oral health.
- Address dental issues early: Don’t wait to consult your dentist if you notice signs such as a cracked tooth or bleeding gums.
By making these practices part of your daily routine, you can help to reduce the likelihood of a tooth infection.
Protect Your Oral Health with Arch King West Dental
If you suspect a tooth infection, don’t wait for the symptoms to escalate. Postponing treatment can lead to further health complications. At Arch King West Dental, we’re here to help work with you towards a solution.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to discuss any concerns about your dental health. Remember, early action saves not only your teeth but also your time, money, and well-being.
