When bacteria reach the pulp of your teeth, you will likely suffer a tooth infection. The infected tooth will be painful and swollen. Luckily, you can manage the pain with some medicine. However, relieving tooth pain does not mean the infection is over. It will continue to worsen and spread to other parts of your body.
If left untreated, a tooth infection can become a life-threatening condition that would lead to death. The infection can be due to harmful bacteria penetrating other body tissues through the tooth. Here are some tooth infections complications that can lead to death:
Brain Abscess
An untreated tooth infection can spread into the brain through blood flow. The bacteria enter your brain, leading to an infection. A brain abscess is a life-threatening condition that leads to a pus-filled pocket. These pockets add pressure to your brain. Sometimes, it can stop the blood flow, which can kill you if not attended. As such, failing to treat a tooth infection will cause brain abscess and can result in loss of life.
Sepsis
Tooth abscess causes some discomfort in your body. You will experience fever and pain. As your body tries to respond to the infection, it can react extremely. This reaction can impact the functioning of your body organs. Your body will have abnormal functioning and damaged tissues. This condition, known as sepsis, will affect your organs and tissues. Consequently, you might suffer organ failure and death.
Endocarditis
Endocarditis is another deadly condition that can arise from an untreated tooth infection. Bacteria can spread to your heart tissues and cause inflammation. Your heart's inner lining will swell and impact its functioning. With time, the heart will cease functioning, and ultimately you will die. In this essence, an untreated tooth infection can turn into a life-threatening condition. If you are struggling with a tooth abscess, you should consider visiting our dental offices today for treatment.