Think a toothache is just a minor inconvenience? Think again. It might seem unlikely, but the truth is that a decaying tooth can kill you if left untreated.
While it’s not a common occurrence, a seemingly minor dental infection can escalate into a life-threatening health crisis. This article will walk you through how this happens, from the nature of tooth infections to the potential complications, who is most at risk, and how to prevent it. Because taking care of your teeth can save your life.
What is a tooth infection, and how does it start?
When a tooth decays, bacteria can penetrate the enamel and dentin, eventually reaching the dental pulp. The dental pulp contains nerves and blood vessels, which means it’s extremely vulnerable to infection.
When this happens, your body attempts to wall off the infection by forming a pocket of pus called an abscess. Abscesses can form at the tip of the tooth root (periapical abscess) or in the gums (periodontal abscess).
The cascade of complications: How a tooth infection can become life-threatening
An untreated tooth infection can move beyond the tooth itself, spreading into surrounding tissue and even entering your bloodstream. Here are some ways that can happen:
- Sepsis: Sepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by your body’s overwhelming response to an infection.
- Ludwig’s angina: This is a rapidly spreading infection of the floor of your mouth that can block your airway.
- Endocarditis: Endocarditis is an infection of the heart’s inner lining, usually caused when bacteria from somewhere else in your body (like your mouth) enter the bloodstream and infect the heart valves.
- Brain abscess: In rare cases, a tooth infection can spread to the brain and form an abscess.
- Necrotizing fasciitis: Also rare, necrotizing fasciitis is a severe and extremely dangerous bacterial infection that destroys tissue. It’s sometimes referred to as a “flesh-eating” disease.
- Mediastinitis: This is an inflammation of the mediastinum, which is the space between your lungs.
- Osteomyelitis: Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone.
Who is most vulnerable?
While it’s rare, tooth decay can be deadly. The following factors increase your risk:
- Compromised immune system: Conditions like HIV/AIDS and autoimmune diseases can weaken your body’s defenses.
- Diabetes: People with diabetes often struggle to heal from infections.
- Malnutrition: When you don’t get proper nutrition, your immune system suffers.
- Older adults: Older people are more likely to have weakened immune systems and other health problems that make them vulnerable.
- Lack of dental care: If you can’t get regular dental care, a small problem can quickly become a big one.
Recognizing the warning signs
It’s important to catch a tooth infection early. Here are some common symptoms:
- Constant toothache
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swelling
- Redness
- Pus
If the infection starts to spread, you might also experience:
- Fever
- Chills
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Severe headache
- Confusion
If you have any of these symptoms, seek dental care immediately. Delaying treatment can lead to serious complications.
Signs that the infection has spread to your blood include:
- Confusion
- High fever
- Increased heart rate
Treatment Options: Stopping the Infection
If a tooth infection becomes severe, it’s important to seek dental or medical care. Treatment options include:
- Antibiotics: These medications can help control the infection by killing bacteria.
- Root Canal Therapy: During this procedure, the dentist removes the infected pulp from inside the tooth. They will then seal the tooth to prevent further infection.
- Tooth Extraction: If the tooth is too badly damaged, removing it might be the only solution.
- Drainage of Abscess: An abscess is a pocket of pus. Draining it involves cutting into the abscess and removing the pus and infected material.
Many dentists and doctors use a two-step approach to treating serious tooth infections. First, they’ll prescribe antibiotics to stop the infection. Then, they’ll address the underlying problem with a root canal or extraction.
How to prevent deadly tooth infections
The best way to avoid a life-threatening tooth infection is to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Here’s how:
- Brush and floss every day. Remove plaque and bacteria by brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups. Dentists can spot and treat dental problems early.
- Eat a healthy diet. Limit sugary foods and drinks.
- Get early treatment. See a dentist as soon as you notice a tooth infection.
Don’t wait for the pain to become unbearable. Early intervention can save your tooth and potentially your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I live with a rotten tooth?
While you can technically live with a rotten tooth for a long time, it’s not a good idea. The infection can spread, leading to serious health problems. Living with a rotten tooth means dealing with pain, bad breath, and potential damage to other teeth. It’s best to seek dental treatment as soon as possible to prevent complications.
Can tooth decay be lethal?
In rare cases, yes, tooth decay can be lethal. If a dental infection spreads unchecked, it can enter the bloodstream and cause sepsis, a life-threatening condition. The infection can also spread to the brain, causing meningitis or a brain abscess, which can also be fatal. While these outcomes are uncommon, they highlight the importance of taking dental health seriously and seeking prompt treatment for tooth decay and infections.
In Summary
A decaying tooth probably won’t kill you, but untreated tooth infections can have serious consequences, even though they’re relatively rare.
Good oral health is an important part of your overall well-being. By brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist regularly, you can minimize your risk of developing a dangerous infection.
Don’t neglect your teeth! If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, schedule an appointment today. It could save your life.