Smile Point Dental

860 S. 11th St Ste 101, Beaumont, TX 77701

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Dental hygiene tips for healthy teeth & gums

What can happen if a tooth infection is left untreated?

We frequently undervalue minor scratches, but we should never do so when it comes to toothaches and infections of the tooth roots. Never put off visiting a dentist if you have a severe toothache, especially if your gums are red and inflamed.

Untreated dental root infections can spread throughout the body, cause more severe health issues, and even put your life in danger. Even though our teeth and gums make up a relatively minor portion of our bodies, disregarding their demands has an adverse effect on other sections of your body.

How Does Tooth Infection Happen?

A buildup of pus at the tooth roots, known as a tooth root infection or periapical abscess, is brought on by a bacterial infection. It occurs when the bacteria enter the tooth’s pulp, which contains connective tissues, blood vessels, and nerves.

Severe Effects of Tooth Infection

Numerous health concerns could develop after the disease-causing bacteria from your diseased tooth enters the circulation. When germs and viruses invade our body, our body responds differently. Untreated tooth infections may not hurt some healthy people, but they may harm other patients who have the following health issues:

  • The bones surrounding your diseased tooth, especially your jawbone, are the first place bacteria go for food. Osteomyelitis, often known as a bone infection, is an inflammation of the bone marrow or bone brought on by a systemic bacterial infection.
  • Severe osteomyelitis can be excruciatingly painful and alter your bone structure. The worst-case scenario is when the germs take control of your body and endanger your life. The course of antibiotics and antifungal drugs used in the treatment can run for four to six weeks.
  • When bacteria from a tooth root infection migrate through the skin’s veins and cause cellulitis, the area becomes infected. Infection of the inner layer of skin near fat is known as cellulitis. You can get cellulitis in your breast, anus, or face. 

Before it’s too late, make an appointment with your dentist and take care of your oral health.