Is it rare for a tooth infection to spread?

While it is rare for a tooth infection or “tooth abscess” to spread to other parts of your body, it can happen. And, if it does happen, the consequences can be quite severe. If you suspect that a tooth infection could be spreading, you do not want to put off seeing your dentist, call for treatment as soon as possible.

How do you treat a tooth infection that has spread?

Antibiotics. A dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to reduce the infection and stop it from spreading. If the infection has already spread, a person may need to extend the course of their antibiotic treatment. Alternatively, they may need to switch to a different type of antibiotic.

How long does tooth infection take to spread?

To summarize: It can potentially take several months for a dental abscess to develop. Once an abscess has formed, noticeable pain and swelling around the affected tooth usually occur. If left untreated, it may take a few more weeks or months for the infection to spread to other tissues and cause complications.

Why can’t you extract an infected tooth?

So let’s look at what really happens: In most cases of tooth infection, a deep cavity, crack or other defect creates a path that bacteria from your mouth can take to reach your tooth’s dental pulp, which contains the tooth’s nerve. The tooth nerve starts dying in response to the presence of this bacteria.

Can you have a tooth infection for years?

The Danger of Untreated Infected Teeth and Gums An infection in your body is considered a threat. If they are not treated, they can last for several months or years. There are two types of dental abscess – one can form under the tooth (periapical) and the other in the supporting gum and bone (periodontal).

What are the dangers of an infected tooth?

Tooth abscesses occur when your mouth is infected by bacteria, or has untreated cavities and oral wounds. They have to be treated immediately as teeth cannot heal themselves. An untreated dental abscess can lead to serious complications in your health. In some rare cases, these complications can even be fatal.

Can infected teeth kill you?

Unfortunately, it is. The infected tooth can be fatal. A tooth abscess won’t go away without treatment and the infection may spread to your jaw, cheeks, sinus, brain and to other areas of your head and neck.

How dangerous is an infected tooth?

Mayo Clinic explains that a tooth abscess is a bacterial infection caused by unfinished dental work or an untreated cavity and, if left untreated, can lead to life-threatening complications. OnHealth.com notes that the biggest danger of an abscess is that the infection will spread from the tooth to the surrounding areas, resulting in cellulitis.

How do I know if my tooth infection is spreading?

Fever or low body temperature