Looking for information on tooth infection spreading faster than you thought?
Our article covers the treatments and when to see a doctor.
A tooth infection can be quite alarming as it can spread faster than you can imagine.
Bacteria most commonly cause infection from the mouth, but it can also come from other sources.
If it is not recognized or treated immediately, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, even the heart.
In this blog post, you will learn about teeth infections, the possible reasons, the different treatments, and when to see a doctor.
What happens when a tooth infection spreads?
Teeth infections are a common problem and can take place for several reasons.
In fact, most people have had a toothache at some point in their lives.
Tooth decay and tooth sensitivity are among the most common reasons for a tooth infection.
But what happens when a tooth infection spreads?
A tooth infection can start from a small cavity, which may be unnoticeable.
As the cavity spreads, the disease will spread and cause pain and swelling.
However, if the infection spreads to other parts of the body, the situation can be quite serious.
It is important to note that tooth infections can also be a result of gum disease or other dental issues.
In some cases, tooth infections can also be caused by a dental procedure.
However, despite the cause, if a tooth infection spreads, it can cause a lot of damage.
How does a tooth become infected?
Tooth infection, or dental caries, can occur due to bacterial infection from food debris and plaque.
The bacteria feed on sugars in the food debris and plaque and release acids as a byproduct.
The acids dissolve the tooth’s enamel, which is a protective layer that protects the tooth.
If left untreated, the bacteria can spread through the tooth and cause it to become discolored and eventually fall out.
Other causes of tooth infection may include injuries to the teeth due to trauma.
The trauma can break the tooth, which can result in bacteria entering the tooth and causing infection.
Who is more likely to get a tooth infection?
People at higher risk for tooth infections include those with diabetes, people who smoke cigarettes or drink heavily, and the elderly.
Those who engage in high-risk behaviors are more likely to develop tooth decay.
In addition, people living in poverty have a higher risk of developing tooth infections due to poor dental hygiene and nutrition.
How do you know if a tooth infection has spread?
A tooth infection or abscessed teeth is a medical condition in which a pocket of pus accumulates inside your mouth.
It happens when the bacteria streptococcus causes a dental infection.
In most cases, the bacteria are caused by a tooth that has been damaged or has a deep cavity.
A tooth infection can lead to a greater and more serious problem, known as an infection inside the jawbone.
Tooth infection is generally painful and could lead to other serious dental conditions, such as tooth loss and even death.
Below are the signs of a tooth infection spreading:
- Swelling
- Pain
- Reddening of the gum tissue
- Drainage from the infected tooth
- Bad breath
- Fever
- Intense pain in the infected tooth
Treatment for a tooth infection
Treating a tooth infection can be a difficult task as it requires a lot of effort and care.
But if you follow a dentist’s instructions, you can get the best possible treatment.
There are a lot of ways to treat tooth infections as follows:
- You may be prescribed antibiotics if the infection is bacterial in nature
- In some cases, tooth extraction may be necessary for severe cases where there is no structural integrity of the bone or gum tissue around the infected teeth
- Dental filling treatment can help restore a decayed or damaged tooth by placing a synthetic material inside it to form its shape and cover up any decay
- Root canal treatment may be necessary if the infection is severe and your dentist recommends it
- Other procedures, such as tooth crowns and bridges, may be suggested to restore the infection-free tooth
- A combination of procedures may also be conducted.
Prevention
Here are the ways to prevent teeth infections:
- Take care of your teeth by brushing at least twice a day and flossing once daily
- Consult your dentist on how to take care of your teeth accordingly
- Make sure you brush your teeth properly and gently
- Brush your tongue to remove bacteria
- Drink plenty of water and avoid drinks containing sugar
- Eat less sugary and acidic foods, such as oranges and grapefruit, to prevent tooth decay
- Remove food debris that accumulates by brushing your teeth after every meal
- Quit smoking or drinking to prevent tooth infection
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and proper dental care
- Eating healthy foods can help build strong teeth and reduce your risk of developing tooth infections
According to the ADA, fluoride is proven to be effective in preventing dental caries.
Professionals recommend using fluoride toothpaste twice a day.
Brushing your teeth with fluoridated toothpaste can allow the active ingredient to reach all areas of your teeth, improving your oral health.
The best way to prevent tooth infection is through regular dental visits.
If you visit your dentist regularly for check-ups, they will be able to detect any potential problem with your teeth.
With early detection of tooth infection, you are more likely to get the right treatment and prevent further issues.
Complications
Tooth infection is a bacterial infection of your teeth. A tooth infection can be caused by bacteria getting inside your tooth.
If that happens, your body’s immune system goes to work fighting the infection.
If the infection spreads into your jaw or the surrounding soft tissues, it can become a serious infection that requires treatment.
An untreated tooth infection can spread to other areas of your body and cause more serious problems.
When to see a doctor?
It is important that you do not delay in seeing a dentist if you are experiencing signs and symptoms of tooth infection spreading to the body.
The sooner you go to the dentist, the greater your chances of getting effective treatment and preventing complications.
If you have a fever with swelling and redness in your gums, you may have an advanced tooth infection.
This type of tooth infection is called a periodontal abscess and requires urgent treatment.
Benefits of Early Treatment
It is always advisable to follow a dentist’s instructions regarding your teeth.
The earlier you get treatment, the fewer complications your tooth infection will experience.
You can also follow the instructions for preventing tooth infections listed above.
If you are in Houston, Texas, and need dental care, don’t hesitate to contact Brownstone Dental.