Can a Tooth Infection Spread to Jaw?
A tooth infection or abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. A tooth abscess can occur in different areas of the tooth for a variety of reasons. A periapical abscess occurs at the tip of the root and a periodontal abscess occurs in the gums, at the side of the root. The focus of this article will be on periapical abscesses. A periapical tooth abscess usually occurs due to an injury, cavity, or the result of previous dental work.
Dentists typically treat tooth abscesses by draining and removing the infection. Root canals help to preserve an infected tooth, however, the tooth may need to be extracted. Untreated tooth abscesses can result in serious consequences.
Symptoms commonly associated with a tooth abscess include:
* Chewing and biting pain
* Difficulty breathing or swallowing
* Fever
* Foul taste or odor in the mouth; pain can be alleviated by a ruptured abscess
* Lymph nodes which are tender or swelling of the face and neck
* Sensitivity to hot and cold
* Severe and persistent toothache which is severe and persistent; the ache may even reach the neck, ear, or jawbone
* Swollen face or cheek
Patients who experience any of these symptoms should reach out to their dentist immediately. If a fever or swelling is present and the patient cannot reach their dentist, proceed to the emergency room as it could be serious. If there is any difficulty with breathing or swallowing, go directly to the emergency without delay as these symptoms can suggest the spread of infection.
A tooth abscess occurs when bacteria invades dental pulp. Dental pulp is the innermost layer of the tooth and contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. In most cases, bacteria enters through a chipped tooth, crack, or dental cavity. Once the bacteria has entered, it can spread down to the root causing inflammation and swelling.
The following risk factors listed increase a patient’s risk for a tooth abscess:
1. Chronically dry mouth: Patients with a dry mouth for long periods of time are at an increased risk for tooth decay. Certain medications and the natural aging process can result in a dry mouth.
2. High sugar diet: Patients who consume large amounts of sugary foods and drinks can be at an increased risk for dental cavities which can become abscesses.
3. Poor dental hygiene: When a patient fails to practices good oral hygiene, they are more likely to experience decay, gum disease, tooth abscess, and other issues.
Unfortunately, a tooth abscess requires treatment as they will not will not go away on their own. A ruptured abscess may temporarily alleviate the pain, however, treatment is still needed. An untreated abscesses can result in the spread of infection into the jaw, neck, or head. Patients can also develop sepsis, which is a life-threatening infection. When a patient has a compromised immune system and untreated tooth abscess, they are at an increased risk for the spread of infection.
Good oral hygiene is critical in preventing an abscess, tooth decay, the spread of infection, and other dental issues. Below is a summary of good oral hygiene practices and tips for the prevention of tooth decay:
* Consume a well-balanced diet which is rich in fruits and vegetables
* Drink plenty of water
* Floss daily
* Minimize sugary food and drinks
* Replace toothbrushes about every 3-4 months or as needed to ensure the teeth are effectively cleaned
* Twice daily brushing with a toothpaste which contains fluoride
* Visits the dentist regularly for a professional cleaning and examination