A dental cavity can lead to swollen lymph nodes. An untreated cavity can progress into a more serious infection, which then triggers a response in the body’s lymphatic system. This article explores how a cavity can result in swollen lymph nodes, the symptoms to recognize, and when to seek professional medical attention.
How Cavities Can Lead to Swollen Lymph Nodes
An untreated dental cavity allows oral bacteria to penetrate deeper into the tooth, reaching the pulp, containing nerves and blood vessels. When these bacteria invade the pulp, they can cause an infection, leading to a dental abscess. An abscess is a pocket of pus from bacterial infection, typically at the root tip or in the gums.
The body’s immune system activates the lymphatic system, a network of vessels and nodes that filter harmful substances, in response to bacterial invasion. Lymph nodes, small, bean-shaped glands, contain immune cells like lymphocytes. When an infection is present, nearby lymph nodes work to trap and destroy the bacteria and infected cells.
Increased activity causes lymph nodes to swell. For dental infections, submandibular lymph nodes under the jaw are commonly affected. Cervical lymph nodes in the upper neck can also enlarge as the body fights infection.
Recognizing Related Symptoms
An infected cavity often presents with symptoms like persistent, throbbing toothache, worsening with pressure or temperature changes. You might also notice sensitivity when biting down or a visible hole or dark spot on the tooth. Sometimes, a small, pimple-like bump (fistula) may appear on the gums near the infected tooth, releasing pus.
When lymph nodes become swollen due to a dental infection, they feel tender or painful to the touch. They may be firm and enlarged, ranging from the size of a pea to a small grape. These swollen nodes are palpable under the jaw or along the sides of the neck, corresponding to the area of the dental problem.
The skin over the swollen lymph nodes may also feel warm or appear reddened. While they may be mobile, meaning they can be gently moved under the skin, their tenderness indicates an active immune response to an underlying infection. Understanding these signs helps connect a dental issue to swollen glands.
When to Seek Professional Care and What to Expect
Seek prompt dental or medical attention if you suspect a cavity is causing swollen lymph nodes. Delaying treatment for a dental infection can lead to severe complications, including the spread of infection to other parts of the head and neck, or even into the bloodstream. Early intervention can prevent these serious health issues.
A healthcare professional, a dentist, will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth and teeth, including dental X-rays to assess the extent of the cavity and infection. They may also palpate the lymph nodes in your neck and under your jaw to check for swelling and tenderness. This comprehensive assessment helps pinpoint the source of the infection.
Treatment for the underlying dental infection involves addressing the cavity, which could range from a filling to a root canal procedure, or tooth extraction. Antibiotics are prescribed to clear the bacterial infection and reduce inflammation, which helps the swollen lymph nodes return to their normal size.