Can an Abscessed Tooth Kill You?

A tooth abscess is an infection in the tooth, gum, or bone under the tooth. This happens when germs get inside through a crack, hole, or gum problem. A tooth abscess can sometimes lead to death if not treated. This guide explains how a tooth abscess can become very serious.

Is It Possible to Die from an Abscess Tooth?

Yes, a tooth abscess that spreads to the neck, chest, or head can be very dangerous. The infection can block the throat and make it hard to breathe. The germs can also get into the blood. This can cause low blood pressure, confusion, and organ damage. These are signs of sepsis, which can cause death if not treated quickly. Getting care early can stop the infection from spreading. Waiting too long makes it more likely to get very sick or die.

Signs of a Life-Threatening Tooth Abscess

A serious tooth abscess needs quick care from dentists in Phoenix, AZ. These signs mean the infection may be spreading:

• Strong tooth pain that won’t go away.
• Swelling in the cheek or jaw.
• Hard time opening the mouth.
• Pus coming from the tooth or gum.
• Fever or chills
• Feeling very weak or tired
• Trouble breathing or swallowing.
• Pain that spreads to the ear, neck, or side of the face.
• Bad smell in the mouth.

What Does a Serious Tooth Abscess Look Like?

Here are the physical signs of a serious tooth abscess:

• Swelling in the face or gums
• Red or shiny skin near the tooth
• Soft lump near the infected tooth
• Loose tooth
• Bump on the gum that leaks pus
• Swollen glands in the neck

How Long Until a Tooth Infection Kills You?

A tooth abscess can spread fast. At first, the pain may feel small. Some people feel okay and do not think it’s serious. But without treatment, the infection gets worse. In just a few days, it can move to other parts of the body like the jaw, neck, or chest.

If the bacteria get into the blood, it can cause sepsis. Sepsis can damage the organs and cause death if not treated quickly. Here’s a simple timeline to understand how fast a tooth abscess can grow:

Can Home Remedies Help Treat an Abscess Tooth?

No, home remedies do not cure a tooth abscess. To reduce the pain, you can:

• Rinse the mouth with salt water.
• Take over-the-counter pain medicine.
• Use cold packs.

But these do not remove the infection and only offer temporary relief. The bacteria inside the tooth or gum remain, and the infection can still spread. Only the best dentist Arizona can clean the infected area and remove the source. The dentist may need to drain the pus, perform a root canal, or remove the tooth. Antibiotics help stop the infection.

What Can Make a Tooth Abscess Worse?

A tooth abscess may cause these problems for some people. Here is what can make a tooth abscess worse:

Tips for Preventing Serious Dental Infections

You can lower the chance of getting a tooth abscess if you:

• Brush teeth with fluoride toothpaste.
• Use floss every day to clean between teeth.
• Visit the dentist two times each year for cleanings and checkups.
• Fix small problems like cavities early.
• Avoid using tobacco.
• Drink water and eat healthy food.
• Limit sugar in snacks and drinks.
• Wear a mouth guard during sports to protect teeth.

Abscess Tooth Treatment Near Me in Phoenix

Central Valley Dentistry in Phoenix offers care for people with a tooth abscess. Our dentists check the tooth, take x-rays, and plan the best treatment. Our team also treats pain and removes the infection. You do not need to wait for care. Just make an online appointment now.

Let’s Recap

A tooth abscess is a serious infection that needs quick care. It can start small but grow fast and cause big problems if not treated. In some cases, it can spread through the body and even lead to death. Home remedies may help with pain, but they do not fix the infection. Only a dentist can clean the area and stop the bacteria. If you see any signs of infection, get help right away. This can keep you safe and healthy.

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