Dangers Of Ignoring A Tooth Infection

woman holding jaw in pain

Tooth infections often start out as what seem to be just a harmless ache. However, a toothache can turn into a tooth infection fairly quickly if left untreated. A tooth infection is referred to as a dental abscess and can be hazardous for your health. The dangers of ignoring a tooth infection are to be taken seriously. The problem is that they can spread to other areas of your body and cause harm. It can be dangerous to ignore a tooth infection, so it’s important to head to the dentist as soon as you feel a toothache begin to get treated.

Symptoms of a Tooth Infection

Tooth infections occur when bacteria get into your teeth through a crack or cavity. Again, it can start out as an ache, but can quickly turn into an infection. Below are some of the common symptoms that should alert you that you have a tooth infection.

  • Cheek swelling
  • Sensitivity to pressure or temperature
  • Throbbing in the tooth or jawbone area
  • Fever
  • Tooth or jaw pain

Dentists recommend that you get checkups every six months in order to maintain your oral health. These appointments also allow your dentist to clean your teeth and take X-rays of your mouth as it helps the dentist with diagnosing any possible issues. Even if you attend your regular appointments you can still get a tooth infection, so it’s important to make an appointment as soon as possible. Addressing the issue early helps with your overall outcome after treatment.

Dangers of Ignoring a Tooth Infection

Leaving a tooth infection untreated is problematic and can cause more health concerns than just your tooth. If you experience any of the following symptoms, your infection has likely spread: headache, fatigue, dizziness, fever, sweating, chills, flushed skin, facial swelling, dehydration, increased heart rate, or even diarrhea or vomiting. Below are some of the common dangers that can occur if you leave your tooth infection untreated.

  • Bone Infection: A tooth infection can impact and infect the surrounding bone area in your jaw and face. Facial bones are not equipped to withstand an infection long term. If the bone is not completely damaged, it won’t need to be removed. However, it will become significantly weaker than before the infection.
  • Tooth Loss: If you get treated early, you can save your tooth. Root canal therapy and a crown can allow your natural tooth to remain in your mouth. However, the infection can cause tooth loss if you are not careful and fail to get treatment early.
  • Septicemia: This occurs when your blood becomes infected by the tooth infection. This is highly dangerous and requires hospitalization.

A root canal will repair and save your infected tooth. During the procedure, pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed up. While root canals often bring up feelings of nervousness for many people, it is a routine procedure that is quick and relatively pain-free. The procedure can save your infected tooth, which is a much better alternative than having the tooth removed entirely.

If you have a toothache or think you may have an infection, contact Diamond Bar Dental Studio! The dentists at Diamond Bar Dental Studio are equipped to take care of your dental care needs, including root canals, extractions, and general dentistry. At Diamond Bar Dental, the focus of Dr. Cho and Dr. Jeon is to ensure that your dental health is taken care of once you leave their office. They understand patients may have concerns or anxiety about visiting the dentist, and they are ready to ensure your experience is smooth and worry-free. If you need to make an appointment, contact Diamond Bar Dental Studio and set up your first visit today!

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646 N. Diamond Bar Blvd.
Diamond Bar, CA 91765

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Tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
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646 N. Diamond Bar Blvd.
Diamond Bar, CA 91765

(909) 455-9979

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BUSINESS HOURS

Monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

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