How long until a tooth infection kills you? Tooth infections, also known as dental abscesses, are painful and potentially dangerous conditions that occur when bacteria invade the pulp of the tooth, the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains blood vessels and nerves. Tooth infections can cause severe toothache, fever, swelling, and pus around the affected tooth. If left untreated, tooth infections can spread to other parts of the body, such as the jaw, neck, brain, or heart, and cause serious complications, such as sepsis, meningitis, endocarditis, or even death. In this article, we will explain how tooth infections happen, how to prevent and treat them, and how long until a tooth infection kills you if you do not seek medical attention.
How does it happen? How long until a tooth infection kills you
Tooth infections happen when bacteria enter the tooth through a cavity, a crack, or a dental procedure. The bacteria multiply and produce toxins that irritate and damage the pulp of the tooth, causing inflammation and pain. The infection can also form a pocket of pus at the tip of the tooth root, called an abscess. The abscess can press on the nerve endings and cause severe toothache. The infection can also spread from the tooth to the surrounding tissues, such as the gums, bone, and soft tissues. This can cause swelling, redness, fever, and difficulty in opening the mouth or swallowing. If the infection is not treated, it can travel through the bloodstream to other parts of the body, such as the brain, heart, lungs, or kidneys, and cause life-threatening complications.
Symptoms of a tooth infection
Some of the symptoms of a tooth infection are:
- Severe, constant, throbbing toothache that can spread to your jawbone, neck or ear
- Pain or discomfort with hot and cold temperatures
- Pain or discomfort with the pressure of chewing or biting
- Fever
- Swelling in your face, cheek or neck that may lead to difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Tender, swollen lymph nodes under your jaw or in your neck
- Foul odor in your mouth
- Sudden rush of foul-smelling and foul-tasting, salty fluid in your mouth and pain relief, if the abscess ruptures
These symptoms may vary depending on the type and location of the tooth infection. If you have any of these symptoms, you should see your dentist as soon as possible to prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of your body.
Treat a tooth infection at home
A tooth infection, also known as a dental abscess, is a serious condition that requires immediate treatment from a dentist. However, some home remedies may help to relieve the pain and inflammation caused by the infection until you can see your dentist. Some of these remedies are:
- Rinsing your mouth with salt water or baking soda solution to reduce bacteria and plaque.
- Applying a cold compress to the cheek or jaw to reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Using natural antibacterial agents such as garlic, oregano oil, fenugreek tea, or hydrogen peroxide to fight the infection.
- Practicing oil pulling with coconut oil or sesame oil to remove toxins and improve oral health.
- Applying aloe vera gel to the affected area to soothe and heal the gums.
These home remedies are not a substitute for professional dental care and they may not work for everyone. You should always consult your dentist before trying any of these remedies and follow their instructions carefully. Do not delay seeking dental treatment if you have symptoms of a tooth infection, such as severe toothache, fever, swollen face, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or foul-smelling discharge from the tooth. A tooth infection can spread to other parts of your body and cause serious complications if left untreated.
Conclusion
Tooth infections, also known as dental abscesses, are serious conditions that can cause severe pain, fever, swelling, and potentially life-threatening complications if left untreated. Tooth infections happen when bacteria enter the tooth through a cavity, a crack, or a dental procedure and damage the pulp of the tooth. The infection can spread to other parts of the body, such as the brain, heart, lungs, or kidneys, and cause sepsis, meningitis, endocarditis, or death. The time it takes for a tooth infection to kill you depends on several factors, such as your immune system, the type and location of the infection, and the treatment you receive.
However, some cases can be fatal in a matter of days or weeks. Therefore, it is important to prevent tooth infections by maintaining good oral hygiene, visiting your dentist regularly, and avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks. If you have any symptoms of a tooth infection, such as severe toothache, fever, swollen face, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or foul-smelling discharge from the tooth, you should see your dentist as soon as possible to get proper treatment and avoid serious consequences. If you are ever curious about how long until a tooth infection kills you, Just remember, a tooth infection can kill you, but it can also be cured if you act fast and follow your dentist’s advice.
