There are several causes of tooth infections. They can take mild or severe forms. When the cavity enlarges, it can even reach deeper into the tooth, allowing bacteria to affect the nerves and cause a dental infection. The leading cause of tooth infection is poor dental hygiene that gives harmful bacteria a free hand to cause infections. The most common type of tooth infection is a dental abscess, and when you leave it untreated, it can make you sick and negatively impact your whole body. This article will explore the symptoms of tooth infection spreading to the body, along with treatment and prevention techniques.
Symptoms Of Tooth Infection Spreading To The Body
Not taking any treatment for tooth infection will only make it stronger and spread in the other parts of your body, which isn’t good. The signs and symptoms indicating that the infection has spread are:
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- diarrhea
- Sweating
- Chills
- Itching on the skin
- Swollen face, neck making it difficult to open your mouth
- Reduced urination
- Pain in tongue and mouth
- Double vision
- Lightheadedness
When To Visit A Doctor
If you notice a tooth infection, immediately visit your dentist to help prevent infection spread to the other parts of the body. If the disease has already spread, the situation can quickly become severe and lead to life-threatening conditions. In such a scenario, make an emergency appointment with your dentist. Early treatment will effectively target the infection and stop the outspread.
Treatment Options For Tooth Infection
Root Canal Treatment
Root canal treatment becomes necessary if the abscess has penetrated deep into the tooth’s pulp. During the procedure, your dentist will drill the tooth to remove the abscess and infected dental pulp. Following the drainage, the root canal is cleaned and sealed. When the tooth completely heals, it is protected by a crown or filling.
Apicoectomy
When root canal fails to eliminate tooth infection, an apicoectomy procedure may be recommended. During the procedure, a dental surgeon opens up the gums to eradicate the end of the tooth root and any other tissue that may be compromised.
Drainage
This procedure involves making a small incision into the gums to eliminate the abscess. When the pus is completely removed, the treatment area will be stitched back. In case there’s severe damage to the tooth, tooth removal may become necessary.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics can help alleviate the infection and prevent the spread. An already spread infection may require an extended dose of antibiotics.
How To Prevent Dental Infection?
- Thoroughly brush your teeth twice a day using fluoridated toothpaste
- Floss at least once a day
- Cut down on the intake of sugary foods and beverages
- Pay regular visits to your dentist
It’s easy and painless to treat tooth infections at the early stages. If left untreated, it can spread to other body parts. Widespread infection can quickly turn into severe conditions.
In case you suspect a tooth infection visit your dentist as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment with the experts at Pearland Family Dentistry, call 832-649-7344.