Toothaches can certainly be annoying, but could they also be dangerous? Most people think of dental pain as an inconvenience, but in some cases, it can be a portent of things to come. There are serious infections that can put your overall health at risk and in rare but real situations, an untreated toothache can even become life-threatening. But how? Continue reading to learn why ignoring dental pain is never a good idea.
What Causes Toothaches?
Toothaches happen for many reasons, from cavities to gum infections. However, the most concerning cause is an abscess. This is an infectious pocket of pus caused by an overabundance of bacterial plaque. Once the root of a tooth becomes abscessed, it can cause swelling, throbbing pain, and sensitivity. However, the real danger comes when the infection spreads!
When Does a Tooth Infection Become Dangerous?
If a dental infection isn’t treated, bacteria can move beyond the tooth and into your bloodstream, causing sepsis.
Normally, when your body detects an infection, it releases antibodies to deal with it. Then you might be sick for a few days and recover. However, with sepsis, this reaction is drastically overblown, causing a system shock that can shut down your vital organs.
Without immediate medical intervention, sepsis turns a simple toothache into a critical health crisis!
What Signs Should You Look Out For?
While not every toothache is life-threatening, some symptoms should throw up immediate red flags. If you experience any of these, call your dentist immediately:
- Severe, throbbing tooth pain that doesn’t go away.
- Facial swelling, especially around your jaw or under your chin.
- Fever, chills, or difficulty swallowing.
- A bad taste in your mouth or pus around a tooth.
How Can I Avoid Dangerous Toothaches?
The best way to avoid a dental emergency is through regular care and early treatment. It’s far easier to prevent fatal toothaches than it is to treat them!
First, be sure to have all the tools you need for consistent oral care, including a soft-bristled toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and a way to floss. Next, make oral hygiene a habit! Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes and floss using your method of choice.
This alone will prevent many oral health issues, but to reduce the risk even further, you’ll need to also visit your dentist at least twice a year. These visits are where you’ll receive professional cleaning and exams that are critical to your mouth’s health.
A toothache might seem minor, but it can quickly turn into a serious medical issue. If you’re experiencing persistent pain, swelling, or other concerning symptoms, don’t ignore them. Getting the care you need quickly could save more than just your smile—it could save your life!
About the Author
Dr. Estella Guo is a passionate dentist who gives her all to help patients prevent the worst dental issues and find relief from pain. She earned her dental doctorate from New York University and has since then continued to learn and grow through advanced training in state-of-the-art procedures. Call (713) 660-8011 to schedule an emergency appointment at West Loop Dental Aesthetics or visit our website to learn more.