An infected tooth, or dental abscess, is a collection of pus caused by a bacterial infection within the tooth or surrounding tissues. This infection typically originates when bacteria infiltrate the pulp, the innermost part of the tooth. This can happen due to untreated tooth decay, a cracked tooth, or dental trauma. Once established, the infection can spread from its initial site, as explored in the following sections.
How Dental Infections Spread Within the Mouth
A dental infection does not typically spread directly from one tooth’s pulp to another tooth’s pulp. Instead, it expands through the surrounding oral structures, potentially compromising the health and stability of adjacent teeth and tissues.
Bacteria from an infected tooth can erode the surrounding jawbone, forming channels and pockets of pus. This bone destruction can extend to the roots of neighboring teeth, weakening their support.
Infection can also spread through the gum tissue, leading to the formation of abscesses that may drain into the mouth. These localized collections of pus can affect the periodontal ligaments and bone supporting nearby teeth. If the infection originates from the root canal system, it can travel down the root and out into the periapical bone, which surrounds the tooth’s root tip.
While the infection may not directly infect an adjacent tooth’s pulp, damage to supporting bone and gums can compromise its integrity. This can lead to bone loss around multiple teeth, ultimately resulting in mobility or even tooth loss in the affected area.
How Dental Infections Spread Beyond the Mouth
Beyond the immediate oral cavity, an untreated dental infection poses a more serious risk, as bacteria can enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system and travel to distant parts of the body. One common pathway is spread to the maxillary sinuses, which can result in sinusitis, an inflammation of the sinus lining.
Bacteria can also cause severe soft tissue infections, known as cellulitis, in the face, jaw, or neck. These infections can lead to significant swelling and may even compromise the airway, making breathing difficult.
Although less common, a dental infection can spread to the brain, potentially causing a brain abscess or meningitis, which is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Individuals with pre-existing heart conditions are particularly susceptible to endocarditis, an infection of the heart lining or valves, if bacteria from a dental infection reach the heart. This occurs when bacteria attach to damaged heart tissue, forming vegetations that can impair heart function.
In rare but severe instances, bacteria from an untreated dental infection can disseminate throughout the body, impacting organs such as the kidneys or joints. The most severe systemic complication is sepsis, a life-threatening condition where the body’s immune response to an infection triggers widespread inflammation. This can lead to organ damage and failure.
Recognizing and Addressing Dental Infections
Recognizing the signs of a dental infection is crucial for timely intervention and preventing its spread. Common symptoms include:
Persistent toothache (throbbing or sharp)
Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
Pain when chewing or biting
Swelling in the gum around the affected tooth (may appear as a pimple-like bump)
Fever
Swollen glands in the neck
Unpleasant taste in the mouth or bad breath
A dental infection will not resolve on its own. Even if pain subsides as the tooth’s nerve dies, the infection remains active and can continue to spread. Prompt dental care is essential to prevent local and systemic complications. Early intervention reduces the risk of the infection advancing.
Treatment aims to eliminate bacteria and prevent further spread. Common interventions include root canal therapy, which removes the infected pulp and seals the tooth, or tooth extraction. Drainage of any abscess is often performed to relieve pressure and remove pus. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to control the bacterial infection, especially if it has spread beyond the tooth. Consulting a dental professional immediately upon suspecting an infection is crucial for effective management.