A dental infection can cause serious or life-threatening complications. Some examples include sepsis, Ludwig's angina, and cavernous sinus thrombosis. If a tooth infection isn't treated, it can spread to other areas of the body over a period of weeks or months. Tooth infection that develops from an untreated tooth abscess can be very serious and life-threatening.
If left untreated, the condition is likely to worsen and lead to a number of complications. Poor oral health can affect the brain. Substances released from gums that are inflamed by an infection can actually destroy brain cells and cause memory loss. Gingivitis can cause dementia and possibly even Alzheimer's disease, when bacteria from the mouth spread to nerve channels or enter the bloodstream.
Oral health is much more than just the health of your mouth, teeth and gums. Because the mouth is the main gateway to the body, poor oral health can have negative consequences for the entire body. Teeth that hurt, gums that bleed, and bad breath are all indicators of poor oral health. Bacteria from the mouth can easily enter the bloodstream and cause infection and inflammation wherever they spread.
Can bad teeth make you sick? Yes, poor oral health can eventually lead to potentially dangerous dental problems, such as abscesses. However, you can take steps to establish good oral care and reduce your chances. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Clean between your teeth once a day with dental floss, floss with water, or another interdental cleaning device, and visit your dentist for a professional checkup and cleaning at least once every six months.
Bacteria from untreated tooth decay can infect other areas of the body and cause cellulitis and life-threatening sinus conditions. Occasionally, very resistant bacteria enter facial tissue near the mouth and cause severe swelling of the upper neck and lower jaw. Without immediate intervention, inflamed tissue can constrict a person's airway. Symptoms of Ludwig's angina include difficulty swallowing, high fever, and fatigue.
The tissue inside the patient's mouth may swell to cover the airway, making breathing impossible. Emergency medical care is needed to help a person breathe properly and avoid suffocation. The group of professionals at Bondi Dental has combined experiences of more than 60 years in all aspects of dentistry. While this dental problem is rare, serious bacterial infections caused by dental diseases are known to be responsible for thousands of hospitalizations and deaths in other parts of the world.
To help you prevent the risks of dental infections, visit us here at Bondi Dental for effective prevention and treatment of mild and serious oral diseases. Tooth abscesses and other dental problems can be prevented if you keep your mouth healthy and visit your dental team regularly. Poor oral health, untreated tooth decay, gum disease, or even common dental procedures can lead to a dental infection, also called a dental abscess.
