It’s common knowledge that untreated infection tends to spread throughout the body. But how long can an infection go untreated before it starts to have worse and worse effects on your health? What does it feel like when a tooth infection is spreading to the body?
At the office of Dr. Justin Raanan, the top periodontist in Beverly Hills, the health and well-being of our patients is our top priority. Whenever one of our patients is dealing with a tooth infection, we implore them to make an appointment as quickly as possible. The sooner an infection is treated, the easier it is to avoid feeling those symptoms as the infection starts to spread.
Tooth infections may be treated by way of a root canal, tooth extraction, or an antibiotic prescription. But it’s essential to know the warning signs that an infection has gone too far. Take a look at the most common symptoms below.
Signs a Tooth Infection is Spreading to the Body
Toothache
A toothache is the very first sign that a tooth infection is just starting to sprout up. Pay attention to your toothache as it worsens and try to make an appointment to see your dentist or periodontist right away. Untreated infection tends to spread to other parts of your body, which will make you feel worse.
Fever
You’ll have a fever when the tooth infection is starting to form. But an advancing fever that shows no indication of going away is a sure sign that the infection is starting to spread throughout your body. Along with a fever, you will have sweating and chills, and your skin will feel flush.
Dehydration
Dehydration and infection go hand in hand. Signs of dehydration include general confusion and not very much urination. But when you do pee, your urine will be darker. Infections use all of the water in your body as your immune system fights hard against it, leaving you with a loss of bodily resources and energy.
Fatigue
If you feel generally unwell, like you are coming down with some sort of illness, that means that an infection is spreading throughout your body. Try to remember if you’ve had a toothache in the recent past and how long it’s been since you last had your teeth examined. When you start to feel dizzy with lots of headaches and fatigue, it’s time to get ahold of your dentist.
Swelling and an Increased Pulse
Your face and body might swell up a lot as the infection spreads. This could make it hard to eat, chew, swallow, or even breathe. If you’re having difficulty opening and closing your mouth, you have an infection. Your pulse and breathing rate will also increase to faster-than-normal speeds as a sure sign that something is wrong.
Treating an Infected Tooth
As your symptoms worsen, it becomes more and more vital for you to see a dentist right away. While you are waiting for your appointment, you can relieve some of your discomfort by taking ibuprofen or avoiding eating any hard, hot, or cold substances.
When you see your dentist, you may need to have a tooth extraction or a root canal in Beverly Hills to save the rest of your mouth and body. In some cases, the infection is caused by an abscess, which your dentist can drain to stop harmful bacteria from spreading throughout your body.
When you start to experience symptoms that may indicate the infection is spreading, you need to take action quickly. Schedule a same-day appointment with your dentist or find emergency medical services that can help you out ASAP.
Stop the Spread of Infection Today!
A toothache and tooth discomfort could be a sign that you are dealing with an impending infection. It’s better to get treated for it early while the infection is still contained in a single tooth. Otherwise, the infection will eventually spread throughout your mouth and the rest of the body, having drastic health effects.
If you are feeling unwell or are experiencing symptoms of pain, fever, or swelling, please seek emergency dental care as quickly as possible. Get rid of your tooth infection and invest in better health for your pearly whites and the rest of your body too!
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