Dental infections, serious and dangerous infections
Left untreated, dental infections can lead to serious and sometimes dangerous infections.
Bad breath, bad taste in the mouth, fever, pain, sensitivity of the teeth to cold or heat, swollen gums, swollen glands in the neck, and swelling in the jaw are symptoms of an infection in the mouth and teeth. .
According to the Journal of Endodontics, in a study of 61, 439 hospitalized patients who developed a dental abscess, 66 patients died from a dental infection. It is very important to observe oral health and perform regular dental examinations.
How does an infected tooth lead to sepsis?
Oral infections can occur in the gums, lips, palate, cheeks and tongue, or at the root of the tooth. Tooth infection also occurs inside or under the tooth, due to tooth decay or fracture. When an infection occurs, the bacteria can leave the tooth and spread to the bone or tissue below, causing a tooth abscess, which can lead to sepsis. As mentioned, sepsis requires timely diagnosis and treatment to survive.
High fever and rapid heartbeat are common symptoms of sepsis. Difficulty breathing may also occur. Skin blemishes are also a sign of the development of sepsis.
Can a tooth infection affect the brain?
Dental abscesses can also lead to meningitis. A condition that causes inflammation of the membranes near the spinal cord and brain. If the bacterial infection is not treated and transmitted to the bloodstream, it spreads to the spinal cord and around the brain. People with weakened immune systems have a higher risk of developing the disease.
Another condition that can be caused by the spread of an uncontrolled bacterial infection to the throat is called Ludwig’s angina. Ludwig’s angina is a rare skin infection that occurs in the floor of the mouth, under the tongue. This bacterial infection often occurs after a tooth abscess. It can also lead to other infections or mouth injuries. The infection is more common in adults than children. People who are treated quickly usually recover completely, but if left untreated can cause severe swelling of the airways and lead to suffocation. Breathing problems, difficulty speaking, neck and ear pain, fever, weakness, confusion and fatigue are common symptoms of Ludwig’s angina.
How should I treat a tooth infection?
If you have symptoms of a tooth infection, see a dentist right away. As with all infections, the infection in your mouth should be treated as soon as possible to reduce the risk of complications, including sepsis.
