What Happens If Tooth Infection Spreads to Your Jaw?

A tooth infection is the build-up of pus and bacteria inside the teeth or gums. The bacteria cause tooth infections. And if left untreated, the bacteria inside the tooth might spread to the jaw. So, if it to the jaw, it could lead to serious and potentially life-threatening conditions.

What Happens If Tooth Infection Spreads to Your Jaw?

Here is what happens if tooth infection spreads to the jaw:

A tooth infection spreading to the jaw could lead to toothache, bone infection, tooth loss, blood infection, and inflammation throughout the body.

Toothache

If there is an opening in the tooth enamel, then bacteria might infect the pulp of the tooth. The infection might spread from the root of the tooth to the jaw. The infection could cause a toothache. Why? Because the infection could lead to tissue swelling and buildup of pus within the tooth and jaw.

Bone Infection

The presence of bacteria inside the tooth could lead to bone infection. The bacteria travel from the pulp of the tooth to the jaw, causing bone infection. And the bacteria can destroy the supporting bones over time. The bone infection could cause swelling and dissolve the jaw bone. The swelling can damage the bone and lead to bone loss.

Tooth Loss

Once the infection spreads to the jaw, the bone structures of the jaw become weak. A weak jaw bone structure does not support the teeth. So, if a person does not treat their tooth infection, they will lose more teeth later in life. If a tooth falls out, it leaves an empty space in the jaw, leading to bone loss and tooth loss.

Inflammation

If a person does not treat a tooth infection, the infection could spread to the jaw bones and other parts of the body. In fact, the bacteria from the tooth infection could spread to the jaws and enter the bloodstream to cause inflammation throughout the body. The inflammation could rupture organs and block arteries.

Blood Infection

Last, but not least, the bacterial infection could spread to the jaw and through the entire bloodstream. If bacteria from the tooth infection enters the bloodstream, it could lead to adverse effects. The person may experience a rapid heartbeat, high fever, chills, confusion, vomiting, and severe nausea. Blood infection can cause shock and organ failure.

Final Thoughts

Most tooth infections are easy to treat. Early treatment can stop the tooth infection from spreading to the jaw. However, if the tooth infection spreads to the jaw, the infection could become severe and life-threatening. Maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist regularly can prevent tooth infections.

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Tooth Infection: Is it an Emergency or Not?

A tooth infection, also known as a dental abscess, is a condition that can cause significant discomfort and potential health risks if left unaddressed. However, not all tooth infections necessitate immediate emergency attention. This brief read aims to discuss the signs of a tooth infection and determine whether it’s an emergency that calls for immediate dental care.

How to Recognize a Tooth Infection

A tooth infection usually develops when bacteria invade the innermost section of the tooth referred to as the pulp. This can result from cracked teeth, untreated cavities, or gum disease. Some of the common symptoms of a tooth infection include:

-Severe toothache
-Swelling in the gums, face, or neck
-A foul taste in the mouth resulting from pus drainage
-Increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods or beverages
-Difficulty chewing
-Fever

Emergency or Not?

Whether a tooth infection is an emergency or not depends on the infection’s severity:

(i) Severe Symptoms

If you experience extreme pain, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or a high fever seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms indicate a potentially severe infection that could spread to other parts of your body.

(ii) Mild to Moderate Symptoms

If you experience mild to moderate pain, localized discomfort, and swelling, it’s still advisable to seek medical attention. Call your dentist and schedule an appointment as soon as possible, but it may not necessitate a trip to the ER.

(iii) Consider Your Overall Health

If you have a heart condition, compromised immune system, or another chronic health issue, even a minor tooth infection can lead to a severe outcome. As such, it’s best to be cautious and seek prompt medical attention.

The Takeaway

Never take a tooth infection lightly as it can result in severe health complications. While not all infections are emergencies, severe symptoms call for prompt medical attention. Knowing the telltale signs, understanding your health condition, and observing good oral hygiene can help prevent tooth infections. If in doubt, do not be afraid to consult your dentist.

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How To Treat An Infected Tooth While Waiting For A Dental Appointment

An infected tooth or an abscess is a serious medical condition. It’s important to make a dental appointment as soon as possible. While you’re waiting for your dental appointment, there are some steps that you can take to ease your symptoms and begin the preparation for your visit to the dentist.

How To Treat An Infected Tooth While Waiting For A Dental Appointment

To get relief and eliminate infection, rinse your mouth with warm salt water. Combine one to two teaspoons of salt with four ounces of warm water, stir it until the salt dissolves, swish it in your mouth, and then spit it out. Use all of the four ounces of salt water until it is gone. Repeat as necessary for relief.

You can also rinse your mouth with baking soda water. Stir a teaspoon of baking soda into 4 ounces of warm water. Swish the mixture in your mouth for a few minutes, and then spit the mixture out. Repeat as needed for relief.

You may find some relief with an ice pack. Fill your ice pack with ice and place the ice pack against your check. You may wish to place a soft cloth between your cheek and the ice pack. Hold this on the affected area for about twenty minutes at a time. Repeat every hour or so as needed for relief.

Clove oil can offer some relief for a toothache. Apply the clove oil to the affected area with a cotton-tipped swab. Repeat this as needed for pain relief. Oil of oregano or thyme oil can also be used. Be sure to use a carrier oil so that you’re not using the oil full strength, as this can cause a burn.

Mix a three percent hydrogen peroxide solution with warm water and swish it around your mouth. Spit this out and repeat as needed to treat the pain and infection.

Acetomenophen and ibuprofen can also treat pain. Take the recommended amount and swallow with a glass of water. Do not allow the medication to dissolve on your tooth, as this can create more damage. Follow the package directions and make sure not to take more than recommended.

These tips and tricks can help to ease your pain while you wait for your dental appointment. Mix and match these remedies as needed for maximum pain relief. Make sure to avoid using oils directly on the skin without a carrier oil. Follow package directions on any OTC pain medications.

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Top Reasons to Seek Immediate Dental Care

Dental emergencies can be both painful and alarming. Knowing when to seek the expertise of an emergency dentist is crucial for preserving your oral health and well-being. In this article, we will outline the top reasons to visit an emergency dentist and explain each scenario in detail.

Top Reasons to Seek Immediate Dental Care

Severe Toothache

A sudden and severe toothache can disrupt your daily life and is often a sign of an underlying issue such as a cavity, infection, or dental abscess. An emergency dentist can diagnose the cause and provide immediate relief, potentially saving the affected tooth.

Knocked-Out Tooth

When a tooth is knocked out due to an accident or injury, it’s essential to see an emergency dentist within the first hour. They may be able to re-implant the tooth successfully if prompt action is taken.

Broken or Fractured Teeth

A broken or fractured tooth can result from various causes, including trauma or biting down on hard objects. Depending on the extent of damage, an emergency dentist can restore your tooth with treatments like bonding, crowns, or veneers.

Loose or Dislodged Tooth

A loose or dislodged tooth, often a result of injury, needs immediate attention. The dentist may be able to stabilize and save the tooth if treated promptly.

Dental Abscess or Infection

Dental infections can lead to severe pain, swelling, and even systemic health issues if left untreated. An emergency dentist can drain abscesses, prescribe antibiotics, or perform root canals to eliminate the infection.

Persistent Bleeding Gums

If your gums bleed excessively, it may indicate gum disease or another underlying problem. An emergency dentist can assess the cause and recommend appropriate treatment to stop the bleeding and prevent further complications.

Lost or Broken Dental Restorations

If a dental filling, crown, bridge, or denture becomes damaged or falls out, it’s essential to see an emergency dentist. They can repair or replace the restoration to maintain your oral function and appearance.

Jaw Pain or Injury

Severe jaw pain or an injury to the jaw can be caused by various factors, including trauma or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. An emergency dentist can diagnose the issue and recommend suitable treatment options.

Orthodontic Emergencies

Problems with braces or other orthodontic appliances, such as broken wires or brackets, can cause discomfort and affect treatment progress. Emergency orthodontic care can address these issues promptly.

Foreign Object Lodged Between Teeth

If a foreign object, like a piece of food or a foreign body, gets stuck between your teeth and cannot be removed with floss, an emergency dentist can safely extract it to prevent damage or infection.

Conclusion

Knowing when to visit an emergency dentist is crucial for maintaining your oral health and minimizing pain and discomfort during dental emergencies. Whether you’re experiencing a severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, a dental infection, or any of the other situations mentioned above, seeking prompt professional dental care in Baltimore can make a significant difference in the outcome. Remember that dental emergencies can happen at any time, so it’s wise to have contact information for an emergency dentist readily available in case you ever need it.

Understanding Dental Abscess: Causes, Emergencies, Treatment, and Prevention

What is a Dental Abscess?

A dental abscess is a localized collection of pus within the tooth or the surrounding tissues. This condition is typically caused by a bacterial infection and can result in severe pain, swelling, and potentially dangerous complications if left untreated. Dental abscesses can occur in different parts of the mouth, such as the tooth itself (periapical abscess), the gums (periodontal abscess), or even in the supporting bone (periosteal abscess).

Main Causes of a Dental Abscess

Tooth Decay: The most common cause of dental abscesses is untreated tooth decay. When bacteria penetrate deep into a tooth’s pulp, it can lead to infection and abscess formation.

Gum Disease: Periodontal disease, which affects the supporting structures of the teeth, can create pockets where bacteria thrive, potentially leading to abscesses.

Dental Trauma: Injuries to the teeth can cause cracks or fractures that provide an entry point for bacteria to invade the pulp, leading to an abscess.

Poor Dental Hygiene: Inadequate oral hygiene practices can lead to the buildup of plaque and tartar, increasing the risk of infection and abscess formation.

Why are Dental Abscesses a Dental Emergency?

Dental abscesses are considered dental emergencies for several critical reasons:

Severe Pain: Dental abscesses often cause excruciating pain that can interfere with daily life and sleep.

Rapid Spread: If left untreated, the infection can spread to nearby tissues, leading to cellulitis, which can be life-threatening.

Systemic Infection: In severe cases, bacteria from a dental abscess can enter the bloodstream, causing sepsis, a potentially fatal condition.

Tooth Loss: Untreated abscesses can result in the loss of the affected tooth or even adjacent teeth if the infection spreads.

How Do Dentists Treat a Dental Abscess?

Dental professionals have several treatment options to address a dental abscess, depending on its severity:

Drainage: To relieve immediate pain and pressure, the dentist may drain the abscess by making a small incision or by performing a root canal procedure.

Antibiotics: Antibiotics are prescribed to control the infection and prevent it from spreading further.

Root Canal Therapy: In cases where the infection has reached the tooth’s pulp, a root canal procedure may be necessary to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth.

Extraction: If a tooth is extensively damaged or if the abscess is too severe to be treated conservatively, the tooth may need to be extracted.

How Can You Prevent a Dental Abscess?

Preventing a dental abscess is far simpler and less painful than treating one. Here are some key preventive measures:

Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice daily, floss daily, and use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce the risk of infection.

Regular Dental Checkups: Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings to detect and address dental issues early.

Treat Dental Issues Promptly: Address dental problems, such as cavities and gum disease, as soon as they arise to prevent them from developing into abscesses.

Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of gum disease, making it crucial to avoid these habits.

Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins supports overall oral health and reduces the risk of dental problems.

Conclusion

Dental abscesses are painful, potentially dangerous, and entirely preventable with proper oral care and regular dental checkups. As a dental expert in Baltimore, I urge you to prioritize your oral health and seek prompt treatment if you suspect a dental abscess. Remember that early intervention can save your smile and protect your overall well-being.

Treat Your Dental Abscesses Quickly To Avoid Severe Health Risks

Dental abscesses can be extremely painful. An abscess appears when the roots of a tooth become infected. It is important to treat this condition right away or the infection could spread throughout your body.

An abscess forms when the roots or the space between two teeth becomes infected. If you do not take action, the infection could spread to nearby teeth. If you wait too long, the infection might spread to other parts of your mouth. There have been cases of infections spreading to other parts of the patient’s body because the abscess had been left untreated for a long time.

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Dental abscesses are very painful and the pain can become worse if it is not treated. You can relieve the pain by taking aspiring, ibuprofen or by applying a cold compress to the area. These are only temporary solutions you can use while you wait for a dentist. You should never apply aspiring directly to the painful area or you could burn the gums and worsen the pain.

You should also avoid taking prescription medication, unless your doctor recommends you to. The best thing to do is to seek treatment rather than focusing on making the pain disappear. You should actively look for a dentist who can see you right away and not hesitate to drive to get to the nearest dentist who can see you. If you cannot find a dentist and the tooth is badly infected, your best option is to go to an emergency room.

Dental abscesses should be treated quickly to avoid complications. Abscesses can be prevented by adopting a good hygiene and by meeting with a dentist twice a year to have your teeth cleaned and inspected. Do your best to prevent abscesses and take action quickly if you develop one to prevent the infection from spreading.

If you have facial swelling, gum pain, and/or a severe toothache you may have an abscess. If these symptoms are present call the dentists at emergencydentalcarebaltimore.com right away.

Facial Swelling is Definitely a Sign of a Dental Emergency

There are several things which can constitute a medical emergency, including pain, oozing sores and swelling. In some instances, all of these may occur; in others only one of these symptoms may be present. If a tooth or the gum around it is not in significant pain, some of our patients make the mistake of thinking that it is fine. However, if the area is swollen, you need to contact our office immediately.

Swelling is a sign of something being seriously wrong. Our patients need and deserve to have a correct diagnosis as soon as possible. In some instances, it may even save the life of a person. This is because swelling often accompanies some form of infection.

While infections anywhere in the body are serious and need to be addressed by a medical professional quickly, when it occurs in the head, the situation becomes more critical. This is because if the infection gets into the blood it can rapidly reach the brain. Patients can suffer a great deal of harm to this vital organ if this occurs, including but not limited to an unexpected and rapid decline leading to loss of life.

Besides a serious infection that can spread quickly, there are other types of infection and irritation that can cause swelling of the face. Viral infections like herpes usually have accompanying pain but not always. The transmittable disease syphilis can cause red swelling that is not painful. Likewise, patients may have some other form of infection, including those caused by fungi and bacteria.

At times, we see patients who have swelling after experiencing some type of injury. Whether it is related to sports or just a simple fall at home, this situation should be checked out by one of our staff. It is not uncommon for people to think the swelling and pain will subside when there is actually something more serious going on. For instance, there may be a chip of tooth embedded in the gum. When patients get to us quickly, we have more options to reduce the pain/swelling and possibly save a broken tooth.

These are just some of the types of dental emergencies that we treat when patients have facial swelling. Having a proper diagnosis as quickly as possible is imperative to successful treatment. If you are experiencing swelling, with or without pain, call our Baltimore area emergency dental office today so we can help you.

Protect Your Dental Health: Do Not Ignore These 4 Symptoms

Nobody likes going to the dentist. I cannot think of one person who looks forward to that necessary obligation. But sometimes it cannot be avoided. At some point in your life, you too may find yourself in need of emergency dental care.

Listed below are four symptoms that should not be ignored. Seek emergency dental care immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

1) Cracked or broken Tooth

If you discover a crack or break in a teeth, you should have it repaired by a dentist immediately. A cracked tooth is vulnerable to decay. This means that, if ignored, the small crack could well become a cavity. Absent treatment, that cavity will continue to decay until it destroys the tooth. This would result in the removal of that tooth, or a root canal.

If it decays it may also cause bad breath as well as increasingly intense pain. All of this can be avoided by seeing a dentist as soon as you become aware of a cracked or broken tooth.

2) A Knocked Out Tooth

Besides an unsightly gap in your mouth, this too can lead to serious problems from decay to cavities to removal of the remaining root. After that, expensive bridgework would be necessary, work that may or may not be covered by your insurance.

3) Increasing Tooth Pain and Swelling

If you experience a growing pain that becomes more and more severe with time and is accompanied by swelling, you likely have yourself an abscessed tooth. This can be very painful. The abscess and throbbing means it is severely infected and needs immediate attention. Consider an abscessed tooth a dental emergency.

4) Lost Filling

If you ignore a lost filling, you will eventually pay for it in the form of major dental work due to the deterioration of that tooth.

Remember, good dental maintenance is your friend. It can help you prevent all four of the above scenarios. So be smart and don’t ignore dental emergencies. However, should you have a dental emergency in the Baltimore, MD area give us a call immediately so we can help you prevent something much worse from developing.

For more information about our emergency dental services go to https://www.emergencydentalcarebaltimore.com.