The Dangers Of Untreated Dental Infection Spreading
Bacterial infections in the gums or in the roots are no different from other infections. Without proper medical attention, infections won’t go away on their own. It’s essential to remove the source of any dental infection to stop the infection spreading and causing further health problems.
A tooth infection can spread to other parts of your body with unpleasant consequences. Left untreated, tooth infections can spread to the mouth and tongue. Severe infections can even spread to the heart and lungs, and cause blood clots, or even sepsis.
Let’s take a closer look at some basics with regard to dental health, hygiene, and tooth or gum infections.
Can a dental infection go away on its own?
Tooth decay or botched dental interventions, such as root canal treatment that went wrong, can lead to a gum infection. The problem is unlikely to just disappear of its own accord. In fact, the danger is that, left untreated, these infections can cause further illness. Get a dentist to diagnose the source of the problem and treat it as soon as possible.
What happens if a tooth infection is left untreated?
When bacteria enter the inner part of the tooth, they can affect the soft interior, called the pulp. Pus can then build up, causing a dental infection, with potentially life-threatening complications. While death from a tooth infection is very rare these days, you are asking for trouble if you do nothing.
Whether or not you have toothache, don’t delay seeing a dentist if you have swollen gums or an abscess.
What are the symptoms of a tooth infection spreading?
Symptoms of a tooth infection that may be spreading include a throbbing pain around the infected tooth. Check your gums in the mirror: if they are red and swollen that could be a further indication of infection.
Other signs of a dental infection spreading are bad breath, a bad taste in your mouth, and tooth sensitivity. Indications of a more serious problem may be a fever, a general feeling of fatigue and malaise, or a headache. Nausea is another symptom, along with swelling around the eyes, neck, or throat. If you develop a temperature, or your heart or breathing rate goes up and you feel dehydrated, seek medical advice.
Elderly people with chronic illnesses such as diabetes or neurological problems may be at greater risk of a gum infection. Seniors generally have weaker immune systems and are more prone to all kinds of infections. That’s why personal dental hygiene is so important. Fairview Adult Day Care Center in Brooklyn NY has a dentist to check for, and treat, any kind of dental issues and infection. Our clients also enjoy fun and recreation activities, rehab therapy and nursing care. Contact us to find out more about our services. We are here to answer any questions you may have.
Regular exams are very important to prevent dental problems. During your dental exam, the dentist will check your teeth for cavities, root and gum disease. It is crucial to get them regularly in order to avoid dental infection and complications.
This article is for educational and informational purpose only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. For any questions about your own health condition, speak to a qualified physician or healthcare provider.
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