How long until a tooth infection kills you? Tooth infections are more common than you might think, but it’s extremely rare to die from one. How long does the infection have to develop before sepsis becomes an issue? And what steps can you take to prevent tooth decay and gum disease in the first place? Continue reading this article to learn more about how common sepsis from tooth infection is and how you can keep your teeth healthy.
What Is Tooth Abscess And Root Canal
When a cavity or periodontal disease, such as gingivitis, is left untreated, the bacteria and acids that naturally form in the mouth build up. The bacteria feed on sugars in our diet to produce acidic waste. This acid eats away at your teeth and can spread to other parts of your body like your heart or kidneys. A tooth abscess happens when this acidic waste builds up around the nerve of a tooth and causes it to swell. Tooth abscesses are often accompanied by swelling and redness around the face and neck as well as a fever that rises to 104°F or higher (body temperature) with chills. A small percentage of people will have low blood pressure with excessive sweating or an abnormal heart rate at this stage.
Signs And Symptoms Of Tooth Abscess
– Toothaches – Swelling around the face and neck – Fever – Rapid heart rate – Confusion or disorientation Though rare, if not treated promptly, tooth abscesses can become serious. That’s why it’s important to have a dentist check out any pain in your mouth. If you think you may have a problem, don’t hesitate to call for an appointment with your nearest Best Orthodontists Near Me.
Should I See My Dentist If I Have A Bad Toothache?
Even if you don’t see anything on the surface of your tooth, there could be an infection or abscess inside that can cause severe swelling and other problems. Best orthodontists near me advise patients to go to their dentist as soon as they feel something wrong with their teeth. If you wait until your gum gets infected, then the problem may be too extensive for an oral surgeon to solve. In most cases, infections are only minor and will quickly clear up if given proper treatment. However, if left untreated, these problems could lead to more serious health issues such as an abscessed sinus and even sepsis.
When Should I See My Dentist Right Away?
There are a few red flags that warrant an immediate dental appointment. These include a toothache or any sudden changes in your gums, which may be the sign of an emerging abscess. In the worst-case scenario, this can lead to sepsis, inflammation throughout the body’s organs, or even death. It’s important to take note of these signs so you can get proper treatment as soon as possible and not wait too long.
How To Treat Pericoronitis At Home
The best way to prevent pericoronitis is to practice good oral hygiene and visit your best orthodontists near me regularly. Clean your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day using the gentle brushing technique, using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste, and make sure you brush up under the gum line where the root ends and not just on top of it. Rinse with an anti-bacterial mouthwash after brushing and spit out any excess liquid (do not swallow). Don’t smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol or eat sweets that contain lots of sugar for at least an hour after brushing to give your mouth time to recover before exposure.
Seek Medical Help If Symptoms Worsen
Severe infections can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition where the body experiences systemic inflammation. If you notice fever, chills, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or rapid heart rate that does not go away after taking ibuprofen it may be time to get professional medical attention. To reduce your risk for developing sepsis: brush and floss teeth daily, maintain healthy gum tissue by visiting your dentist regularly, avoid tight-fitting dentures if possible, and use proper oral hygiene when eating or drinking.
