Are you suffering from sensitivity in your tooth? Is your tooth painful and swollen from one of the sides? Is now fever also a symptom that occurs with bouts of severe toothache?
If you answered yes to any one or all of the above questions – you not only have a tooth infection, but it is also growing and getting much more dangerous for your oral and general health with the passage of time without having it treated.
Tooth infection is a very serious disease that requires treatment as soon as possible. If it is left untreated or taken lightly, it is capable of getting much more severe and spreading to other parts of your body, leading to a painful condition, deteriorating health, and even death in some cases.
In this blog you will learn can a tooth infection kill you?. Here you will get answers about everything you need to know about a tooth infection that will help you successfully deal with such conditions, and if not taken seriously “How long until a tooth infection kills you?”
What Is A Tooth Infection?
A tooth infection, which is also known as a dental abscess can be explained as the formation of a collection of pus that is caused by a bacterial infection and is capable of developing inside the teeth, within the gums, or even in the bone that is responsible for keeping the teeth fixed in one place.
There are two major types of tooth infections, Periapical abscess, and Periodontal abscess. The abscess that is formed at the very end of the tooth is called a periapical abscess; while the formation of an abscess in the gums area is called a periodontal abscess.
Signs Of Tooth Infection
The discomfort and pain-inducing signs and symptoms of tooth infection are inclusive of:
- Consistently severe infection and throbbing toothache, that eventually spreads all the way to your jawbone, neck, or even ear
- Hot and cold temperatures cause pain or discomfort
- Uncomfortable or painful sensations when chewing
- Fever
- Swelling on your face, cheek, or neck – causing hindrance for breathing and swallowing
- Tender, swollen lymph nodes under your jaw or in your neck
- Constant bad breath
- A sudden rush of foul-smelling and foul-tasting, salty fluid in your mouth and pain relief, if the abscess ruptures
What Are the Symptoms Of Tooth Infection Spreading To The Body?
If a tooth infection is taken lightly and treated carelessly, it is fully capable of spreading to the other parts of the body, such as:
- Face
- Jaw
- Neck
- Bloodstream
- Brain
Symptoms that serve as a sign to indicate that the tooth infection has started to spread beyond just the tooth include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Skin redness
- Swelling in your neck or face
- Pain when opening your mouth or touching your jaw or face
- Sore throat
- Change in your voice
- Stiff neck
- Changes in mood or vision
- Confusion and extreme drowsiness
- Severe pain
- The overall feeling of being unwell
Can A Tooth Infection Make You Sick?
Tooth infections tend to cause severe discomfort and pain, but there are instances when it does not cause any pain, which also leads to late diagnosis – Regardless of the tooth infection symptoms it may or may not cause, a diagnosed tooth infection should be enough of a reason to see a dentist immediately.
The reason that it is so important to visit your dentist as soon as you can, is that tooth infections just do not go away on their own; not only that, but if they are left untreated, they can start spreading to other parts of the body as well, making you seriously sick with multiple tooth infections symptoms. And it is almost possible that tooth infections kill you.
How Long Do Antibiotics Take To Reduce Tooth Infection Swelling?
While it may not be noticeable at first, antibiotics are immensely effective, start working your magic as soon as you start consuming them. It takes at least 2-3 days for you to feel somewhat better, and see an improvement in the tooth infection symptoms. On average, a full course of antibiotics requires a minimum of 7 to 14 days to get completed, based on the type being used.
Over-The-Counter Antibiotics For Tooth Infection
There aren’t many effective over-the-counter medications for tooth infections, as antibiotics require a healthcare provider’s prescription. For immediate relief, consider remedies on how to stop a toothache fast, but always consult your dentist for proper treatment.
This is so because the FDA cautions against using leftover antibiotics from a previous illness or medicines prescribed for someone else. This is to help combat the growing problem of antibiotic resistance.
However, there are some medications that might be able to help you with tooth infection symptoms to some extent, for instance, some people take over-the-counter pain relief medications for an affected tooth such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
How To Get Rid Of Tooth Infection Without Antibiotics?
You might usually think about can an infected tooth kill you. Then, yes there is a possibility. To avoid this, you to get it treated as soon as you get diagnosis about it. There are certain home remedies for tooth infection as well, that is quite effective when it comes to relieving pain, swelling, and discomfort that is caused by tooth infection symptoms. Things that you can try when suffering from tooth infection are:
- Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water
- Applying baking soda paste to the tooth
- Rinsing with diluted hydrogen peroxide
- Using cold compresses
- Taking over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief medicines such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Using herbal treatments such as clove oil, vanilla extract, peppermint tea bags, or garlic paste on the tooth.
How Long Until A Tooth Infection Kills You?
A tooth infection can be initiated and take up to several months to develop completely, and once it has formed it causes severe pain, constant discomfort, and swelling right around the infected area. and if you have a question if Can Toothache Cause Headache, yes it can.
If a fully developed tooth infection is left untreated, it wouldn’t take more than a few weeks or maybe months in some fortunate cases for the tooth infection to start spreading to the other parts and tissues of the body and lead to serious life-threatening complications – Once a tooth infection gets to such a point, death of the suffering person can occur real fast. But if you’re wondering how long can a tooth infection go untreated, don’t think about it. Because if you leave it untreated, it will cause you a serious trouble.
Factors like older age, having diabetes, or being immunocompromised can increase your risk of complications from a dental infection.
How Is A Tooth Infection Treated?
Dentists treat a tooth infection by draining the collected pus and addressing the abscessed area. They may perform a root canal to save the tooth or, in severe cases, remove it completely. Given the rapid progression and severe complications of untreated infections, seeing a dentist at the first sign is crucial. For immediate relief, consider methods that claim to “kill tooth pain nerve in 3 seconds permanently“, but always consult your dentist for professional advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know if a tooth infection is killing you?
Symptoms like severe pain, fever, swelling, and difficulty breathing may indicate a serious infection. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
How long can you live with a tooth infection?
Untreated, a tooth infection can be life-threatening within days to weeks due to potential complications like sepsis. Early treatment is crucial.
How fast can a tooth infection spread to your brain?
A tooth infection can spread to the brain within days to weeks if left untreated, causing serious conditions like brain abscesses or meningitis.
How do you know if a tooth infection has spread to your blood?
Signs of sepsis from a tooth infection include high fever, rapid heart rate, confusion, and severe weakness. Seek urgent care if these symptoms arise.
How do you know if a tooth infection is getting worse?
Worsening symptoms include increased pain, swelling, fever, difficulty swallowing, and spreading redness. Seek medical help if symptoms escalate.
When should I go to the ER with a tooth infection?
Go to the ER if you experience severe pain, swelling, fever, trouble breathing, or symptoms of sepsis. Immediate attention is crucial for serious complications.
Is untreated tooth infection life-threatening?
Yes, an untreated tooth infection can be life-threatening. It may spread to surrounding tissues, cause severe complications like tooth decay or brain abscesses, and lead to serious health risks.
When do I need a root canal?
You need a root canal or tooth extraction if you have severe tooth pain, prolonged sensitivity, deep tooth decay, or an infected tooth pulp. It helps save a tooth that's severely damaged or infected.
How long does it take for a dental infection to spread to the heart?
A dental infection can spread to the heart, causing serious complications like endocarditis, within weeks to months if left untreated. Prompt dental care is essential to prevent such serious complications.
Can a Tooth Infection Kill You?
Yes, a severe tooth infection kill if untreated. It can spread to vital organs, cause sepsis, or lead to severe complications like brain abscesses. Immediate medical treatment is crucial for dental infections.
What does a tooth abscess look like?
A tooth abscess typically appears as a swollen, red area on the gum near the affected tooth, sometimes with a visible pus-filled bump. It may cause severe pain and tenderness in the area.
Does tooth infection cause brain abscess?
Yes, an untreated tooth infection can potentially cause a brain abscess if the infection spreads through the bloodstream or surrounding tissues, leading to potentially life-threatening complications.
What To Eat After Tooth Extraction?
After tooth extraction, eat soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and mashed potatoes. Avoid hot, spicy, and hard foods. Stick to cool or room-temperature items to prevent irritation.
– Disclaimer –
This blog is for informational & educational purposes only and does not intend to substitute any professional medical advice or consultation. For any health-related concerns, please consult with your physician, or call 911.
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About The Author
Dr. Syra Hanif M.D.Board Certified Primary Care Physician
Dr. Syra Hanif is a board-certified Primary Care Physician (PCP) dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered healthcare.
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