What is a Jaw Infection and what does it feel like?
When a patient has a condition which impacts their jaw, a team of general dentists and specialists will often work together to treat the issue. In order to collaborate and determine the ideal treatment plan, the team will work together in a multidisciplinary manner. This allows for involvement from various types of oral care specialists.
In most cases, jaw trauma is the result of an injury or accident. Jaw reconstruction is often managed by a team of various types of doctors. A jaw deformity is commonly treated with both surgical and orthodontic techniques. Reconstruction teams often include dentists, otolaryngologists or ear, nose and throat specialists, oral surgeons, and facial plastic surgeons. The mouth plays such an integral role in a patient’s overall appearance and self-esteem. As a result, the reconstruction team will works to restore the jaw’s function and appearance.
Infected jaw bones and dental abscess are the result of an untreated dental cavity. Bacteria forms and results in an infection. When the infection is not promptly treated, it can slowly travel into the jaw bone and result in serious health issues. In some cases, the consequences may be permanent. Some of the most common symptoms associated with a dental abscess and jaw bone infection include jaw or mouth pain, pus near the infected area, redness, and swelling.
Dentists will use imaging and blood work to evaluate the severity of a jaw bone infection. Treatment for this type of infection may also include an antibiotic prescription. Surgery may be required if the infection is severe.
Patients with a fever or swollen face who are unable to reach their dentist should go to the emergency room right away. If a patient is having trouble breathing or swallowing, they should also proceed to the emergency room. These symptoms can suggest that the infection has spread to other areas of the body. Infection can spread into the surrounding tissue, deeper into the jaw, and to other areas throughout the body.
If the patient has an abscess they should follow up with their dentist immediately. In most cases, the dentist will work to drain the infection and write a prescription for antibiotics. Treatment for a severe abscess may involve surgery to prevent the infection from spreading into the bones. Although it is rare, some cases may require extraction of the tooth.
Osteonecrosis is a term used to describe a jaw condition which can occur after a patient undergoes radiation treatment. This issue takes place when the bone loses its blood supply and fails to heal properly. Patients who need to undergo radiation treatment should have a dental examination before starting treatment to identify if they are at risk for this condition.
A tooth abscesses does not go away on its own and treatment is required. When an abscess ruptures, it may improve the pain significantly. However, treatment is still needed. Abscesses which do not drain can allow for the spread of infection into the jaw, neck, and head. A rare but serious side effect is the development of sepsis, a life-threatening condition which impacts a patient’s organs.