Can a Tooth Infection Make You Sick? Understanding the Risks

A tooth infection might seem like a minor inconvenience, but did you know it can affect more than just your mouth?

If left untreated, a tooth infection can spread to other parts of your body, leading to serious health complications. Understanding the risks can help you take action before it’s too late.

In this blog, we’ll explore how a tooth infection can impact your overall health and why seeking immediate dental care is crucial.

What is a Tooth Infection?

A tooth infection, also known as a dental abscess, occurs when bacteria invade the soft tissue inside your teeth. This usually happens due to:

Untreated cavities
Cracked or broken teeth
Gum disease
Poor oral hygiene

When bacteria build up, they create pus, leading to swelling, pain, and discomfort. While a mild infection might seem manageable, ignoring it can have serious consequences.

Symptoms of a Tooth Infection

Recognising the symptoms of a tooth infection early can prevent it from spreading. Common signs include:

Persistent, throbbing toothache
Swelling in the face or gums
Fever and chills
Bad breath or a bad taste
Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek help from an emergency dentist in Wolverhampton before the infection worsens.

How Can a Tooth Infection Make You Sick?

Many people don’t realise that an untreated tooth infection can go beyond oral discomfort. Here’s how it can impact your overall health:

1. Spread of Infection to the Bloodstream (Sepsis)

If a dental infection isn’t treated in time, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream, leading to sepsis, a life-threatening condition. Symptoms of sepsis include:

High fever
Rapid heartbeat
Confusion
Low blood pressure

Sepsis requires immediate medical attention and hospitalisation. Preventing such a serious condition starts with early dental intervention.

2. Sinus Infections and Facial Swelling

A tooth infection in the upper jaw can spread to the nearby sinuses, causing a painful condition called sinusitis. This results in:

Pressure around the eyes and forehead
Nasal congestion
Headaches

Swelling from an infection can also affect the face, making it difficult to breathe or swallow in severe cases.

3. Heart Complications (Endocarditis)

Oral bacteria can travel through the bloodstream and reach the heart, leading to endocarditis, an infection of the inner heart lining. This condition is particularly dangerous for individuals with existing heart problems. Symptoms include:

Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Fatigue

Maintaining good oral hygiene and addressing infections quickly can reduce this risk significantly.

4. Brain Infections (Abscesses)

Though rare, bacteria from a severe tooth infection can spread to the brain, leading to a brain abscess. This can cause:

Severe headaches
Nausea and vomiting
Vision problems
Seizures

Brain infections are medical emergencies that require immediate treatment. The best way to avoid such complications is by treating dental infections promptly.

5. Lung Infections and Pneumonia

Oral bacteria can be inhaled into the lungs, leading to pneumonia or other respiratory infections. Those with weakened immune systems, including the elderly, are at a higher risk. Symptoms include:

Coughing
Shortness of breath
Chest pain

Good oral hygiene and routine dental check-ups can help prevent bacteria from spreading to the lungs.

When Should You See a Dentist?

You should never ignore signs of a tooth infection. Immediately see an emergency dentist if you have:

Severe or persistent tooth pain
Swelling in the mouth or face
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Fever along with dental pain

Delaying treatment can lead to severe complications that require hospitalisation. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, please visit an emergency dentist near you for immediate care.

Preventing Tooth Infections

The best way to avoid dental infections and their risks is through preventive care. Here are some simple steps:

Brush and floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria that can lead to cavities, gum disease, and infections. Use fluoride toothpaste and floss thoroughly to clean between teeth.
Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups to catch potential issues early and prevent serious dental problems. Routine exams help detect infections before they worsen.
Limit sugary foods and drinks, as they feed harmful bacteria in your mouth, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Opt for water, fresh fruits, and dairy products that promote oral health.
Address cavities and cracked teeth promptly to prevent bacteria from entering the tooth’s inner layers, which can lead to infections, abscesses, and even systemic health issues.

By taking these precautions, you can protect not just your teeth but your overall health as well.

Don’t Ignore a Tooth Infection – Get Help Today!

A tooth infection is more than just a dental problem—it can put your whole body at risk. If you suspect an infection, don’t wait for the symptoms to worsen.

Book an appointment with Emerdency as soon as possible for expert care and lasting relief.