Ever brushed off a toothache, thinking it was no big deal? Maybe you popped a painkiller and figured it would go away on its own. It’s easy to underestimate the power of a little tooth decay, but here’s the thing: while it’s rare, an infected tooth can actually be life-threatening if it goes untreated.
Yes, you read that right. That nagging toothache, if ignored, could lead to serious complications. This article will explore the potential dangers of untreated tooth infections, how those infections can spread, who’s most vulnerable, and — most importantly — what you can do to prevent a simple decayed tooth from becoming a major health crisis.
What is a tooth infection and how does it start?
To understand how a tooth infection can potentially be life-threatening, it helps to know a little about tooth anatomy.
A tooth is made up of three layers: enamel, dentin, and pulp. Enamel is the hard, outer layer that protects the tooth. Dentin is a softer layer beneath the enamel. The pulp is the innermost layer of the tooth, and it contains nerves and blood vessels.
Tooth decay, or cavities, happens when bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars and produce acid. This acid eats away at the tooth enamel, forming holes. If these holes aren’t treated, they can grow deeper, all the way to the pulp. This can cause inflammation and infection.
A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. There are two main types of tooth abscesses: a periapical abscess, which occurs at the tip of the tooth root, and a periodontal abscess, which occurs in the gums next to the tooth root.
The progression: From localized infection to systemic threat
A toothache is no fun, but it can also be the first sign of a serious problem.
Localized symptoms and initial spread
At first, you might notice a toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, or redness in your gums. The infection is localized to the tooth and the tissue right around it.
Pathways of systemic spread
If the infection goes untreated, it can spread beyond your mouth through your bloodstream or by direct extension into nearby tissue. Bacteria from the infected tooth can spread to your bloodstream, your lungs, or even your brain.
The speed and severity of the infection vary depending on what caused it in the first place, along with your general health and any other conditions you may have.
Life-threatening complications of untreated tooth infections
Infections that start in the mouth can sometimes lead to other, more serious, health problems. Here are some of the most worrisome complications.
Sepsis
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition triggered by your body’s response to an infection. If bacteria from a tooth infection get into your bloodstream, that can set off a chain reaction that leads to sepsis. Sepsis can cause organ damage, shock, and even death.
Ludwig’s angina
Ludwig’s angina is a serious infection at the floor of your mouth, and it often starts with a tooth infection. The infection causes rapid swelling that can block your airway, causing you to suffocate.
Necrotizing fasciitis
This rare but extremely dangerous bacterial infection destroys skin, muscle, and underlying tissue. It can start from a tooth infection and spread quickly.
Endocarditis
Endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining of the chambers and valves of your heart. Bacteria from a tooth infection can travel to your heart and cause this dangerous condition.
Cavernous sinus thrombosis
This rare condition involves a blood clot in the cavernous sinus, which is a cavity at the base of your brain. A tooth infection can spread to this area and cause a clot to form.
Osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis is a bone infection. A tooth infection can spread to your jawbone and cause this condition.
Brain abscess
A brain abscess is a pocket of pus in the brain. A tooth infection can spread to the brain and cause this dangerous condition.
Who’s most vulnerable?
While rare, serious complications from tooth decay are more likely in certain groups:
- People with weakened immune systems: Conditions like HIV/AIDS and cancer, as well as immunosuppressant medications, can make it harder for your body to fight off infections.
- People with diabetes: Diabetes can impair your body’s ability to heal and fight infection.
- Older adults: Older adults sometimes have other health conditions and weaker immune systems.
- People who are malnourished: Without proper nutrition, your immune system can’t function properly.
- People with poor oral hygiene: Not brushing and flossing allows decay to progress and infections to develop.
Prevention and treatment: Stopping the infection before it spreads
The best way to keep a decayed tooth from becoming a life-threatening issue is to prevent the decay in the first place. The next best strategy is to treat a dental infection before it spreads beyond the tooth.
Prevention: The foundation of oral health
See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Brush twice a day and floss daily. Eat a balanced diet low in sugary foods and drinks.
Treatment options: Addressing the infection
If you think you have a tooth infection, see your dentist right away. A professional can assess your case and recommend an appropriate treatment. Common treatments include antibiotics, root canal therapy, and tooth extraction.
Don’t rely on home remedies to treat a serious tooth infection. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms described above, seek professional medical care as quickly as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I live with a rotten tooth?
While you can technically live with a rotten tooth indefinitely, it’s strongly discouraged. The longer you leave it untreated, the higher the risk of serious complications. Living with a decayed tooth can lead to chronic pain, infection, and even systemic health problems. It’s best to seek treatment as soon as possible.
How do I know if my teeth are killing me?
It’s unlikely that your teeth are literally killing you, but untreated dental infections can become life-threatening. Warning signs of a serious infection include severe pain, swelling in your face or neck, fever, difficulty breathing or swallowing, and confusion. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
What will happen if a decayed tooth is not removed?
If a decayed tooth isn’t removed or treated, the decay will worsen, potentially leading to a painful abscess. This infection can spread to surrounding tissues and even enter the bloodstream, causing a serious condition called sepsis. Sepsis can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical intervention.
Can a rotten tooth cause death?
While rare, a rotten tooth can indirectly lead to death. An untreated dental infection can spread to the brain, causing meningitis or a brain abscess, or lead to sepsis. These conditions are serious and can be fatal if left untreated. Prompt dental care is crucial to prevent these potentially life-threatening complications.
Conclusion
While it’s not common, an untreated tooth infection can lead to serious and even life-threatening complications. So, it’s essential to take care of your teeth and gums.
Good oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and a healthy lifestyle can help you avoid tooth decay and infection. Brushing and flossing, along with a balanced diet, go a long way toward preventing dental problems.
If you think you might have a tooth infection, don’t wait. See a dentist as soon as possible to get a diagnosis and treatment plan. Taking care of your teeth isn’t just about having a nice smile. It’s also about protecting your overall health and well-being. Ignoring your dental health can have serious consequences, so make it a priority.