Oral health is so important, and even with regular checkups and care from Sierra Madre dentist, Dr. Q, there can be the odd issue. When most of us think of dental problems, we think cavities, which are relatively easy to detect and often just as easy to fix. What many people don’t realize, however, is that there are certain conditions such as abscessed teeth that, if left, can cause serious health problems and even death.
While the chances of getting an abscessed tooth are low if you follow the rules of good oral hygiene and care for your teeth, Sierra Madre patients should always be aware of the symptoms in case the condition should arise. Neglecting to treat an abscessed tooth can lead to a variety of negative effects on your health and can cause severe, long-lasting damage.
Identifying an Abscessed Tooth
An abscessed tooth is normally caused by extreme tooth decay and appears as an infection either at the root or near the base of the tooth. This infection presents as severe pain in and around the area, along with several other potential symptoms:
- Fever
- Open sores on the gums
- Pain in the tooth on chewing
- Red, inflamed gums
- Swelling in the jaw
- Swollen glands in the neck
- Toothache
- Very bad breath
While it’s important for Sierra Madre patients to be aware of the symptoms of an abscessed tooth, it may help to know that they’re often quite severe and difficult to ignore.
However, leaving the infection untreated can have devastating effects.
How an Abscessed Tooth Can Damage Your Health
While it’s vital to treat infection in any part of the body, the dangers of an infection in the form of an abscessed tooth are magnified by concerns over spreading to other parts of the body.
When spreading occurs, it can bring with it a range of consequences that can cause extensive damage to Sierra Madre patients, for example:
- Bacteria can spread to the sinuses, leading to a sinus infection
- Bacterial Endocarditis, a condition where bacteria spreads to the heart
- Brain abscess from infection spreading to the brain via blood vessels – in some cases, this can result in coma
- Ludwig’s Angina, or an infection of the face and jaw- this can lead to a restriction of the airways
- Loss of teeth due to damage to the gums and jawbone
The majority of the conditions that can be caused by the spread of bacteria are quite serious and can cause long-term health issues.
Prevention and Treatment
The good news is that by sticking to a routine that facilitates regular care such as brushing and flossing every day and seeing your dentist regularly, abscessed teeth can be avoided.
Abscessed teeth are caused primarily by tooth decay, which means using an antiseptic mouthwash and maintaining good oral hygiene should keep you safe.
However, should a situation ever arise where you suspect an abscessed tooth, it’s vital that you seek out professional advice immediately. When left for a prolonged period of time, the condition can worsen drastically which ultimately results in more pain as well as more complicated treatment.
Want more information on how to avoid an abscessed tooth? Call our Sierra Madre office today at (626) 599-9819!
