A tooth infection should be treated at an earlier stage. You may wonder, how long until a tooth infection kills you?
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How Long Until a Tooth Infection Kills You
A tooth infection should be treated at an earlier stage. You may wonder, how long until a tooth infection kills you? If a tooth infection is not treated, it can develop into a potentially fatal condition in weeks or months.
Bacteria affecting the tooth pulp can cause an infection that spreads to the jawbone, adjacent tissues, or even essential organs through the blood. A severe tooth abscess is uncommon, and it can cause Ludwig's angina, sepsis, or brain abscesses, which can be fatal if not treated. To know more about tooth infection, continue reading the blog.
Can You Die from a Tooth Abscess?
How long until a tooth infection kills you? It often takes weeks for it to spread, and in extreme situations, it can result in problems like sepsis in a matter of days. Since the infection can spread to the brain or circulation and possibly cause death, dental care must be received right away. An infection will typically arise if germs infiltrate your tooth and reach the pulp, the soft tissue region in the middle of the tooth.
An abscess may develop around the infected tooth due to the infection's continued progression over time. This abscess, a pocket of pus and infection, will gradually worsen and may cause excruciating pain, a toothache, and other symptoms. Many years ago, tooth infections were a common cause of death before modern dentistry was developed. Between 10 and 40 percent of dental infections resulted in mortality until 1908.
Nowadays, it is rare for someone to pass easily from a tooth infection due to the numerous advancements in dental knowledge and care. The developed technology helps you to have a healthy life.
What is a Tooth Infection?
A tooth infection, also known as a dental abscess, arises when bacteria enter the dental pulp, the soft tissue within the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. This invasion produces pus, which causes swelling, pressure, and pain. Tooth infections typically develop from:
- Untreated cavities.
- Cracked or chipped teeth.
- Gum disease.
- Failed dental treatment.
How Does a Tooth Infection Spread?
If left untreated, the infection does not simply remain in the tooth. It could:
- Spread across the jawbone.
- Enter the bloodstream.
- Reaching the brain (brain abscess).
- Spread to the neck and chest (Ludwig's Angina).
These advanced stages can occur far faster than most people think, particularly in those with weaker immune systems, diabetes, or chronic health issues.
Who Gets an Abscessed Tooth?
You are more prone to get an abscessed tooth if you:
- Smoke: People who smoke are twice as likely to get dental abscesses as those who do not.
- Dry Mouth: Bacteria grow in mouths with minimal saliva production.
- Have Poor Oral Hygiene: Brushing, flossing, and obtaining dental cleanings regularly helps to minimize bacteria.
- Have a Low Immune System: Diseases and drugs can impair your immunological response, making it more difficult to fight against pathogens.
When Does a Tooth Infection Become Life-threatening?
Understanding how and when a tooth infection becomes harmful is essential for maintaining health. While not all tooth infections are dangerous, problems might develop if left untreated. People frequently have a doubt about how long it will be until a tooth infection becomes life-threatening. The main danger is how quickly the infection spreads to key organs like the heart, brain, and lungs.
Although most infections are initially confined, they can become life-threatening if spread. An untreated tooth infection can lead to complications. Signs of a serious tooth infection include spreading facial swelling, trouble breathing or swallowing, fever, rapid heartbeat, confusion, or weariness. These symptoms may signal that the disease affects key airway or brain tissues.
Individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying medical disorders are at a higher risk. Prompt dental care is crucial. Antibiotics may temporarily control the infection, but in many cases, drainage or extraction of the afflicted tooth is essential.
While many tooth infections are easily treated with dental care, ignoring the symptoms or delaying treatment can lead to serious problems. Any serious or escalating symptoms should be reported to a doctor or emergency room immediately to avoid life-threatening results.
Bottom Line
How long until a tooth infection kills you? It usually takes from a week to months. A tooth infection is more than a painful inconvenience, and it can be dangerous if not treated. The time it takes for an infection to progress to severe problems varies, but the effects can worsen rapidly once it does.
You should not wait for the pain to worsen or the infection to spread elsewhere. Early dental treatment can save your health and life. Immediately take action if you are experiencing swelling, fever, or chronic tooth pain. Contact your dentist right away and take charge of your oral health. Your fast action today may avoid a medical emergency tomorrow. Schedule your dental checkup before it is too late!