Friday, March 29, 2024

Can Tooth Infection Cause Stomach Problems

Must read

University Of Florida Endoscopy Center

How I Stopped My Painful Tooth Infection FOR PENNIES

This facility specializes in outpatient endoscopic procedures such as upper endoscopy and colonoscopy. In order to receive care at the UF Endoscopy Center, patients must have a referral from their physician prior to requesting an appointment. Providing a high level of patient care is a priority for the physicians and staff at the UF Endoscopy Center. Visit their website for more information.

Signs That A Tooth Infection Is Spreading

Dental infections are no fun at all, and without proper treatment, the infection in the tooth can spread to other parts of your body. This can lead to serious complications, and may be life threatening. Your mouth is full of bacteria from food that you eat, and from saliva and plaque. This bacteria can enter into your tooth and result in an abscessed tooth. The tooth abscess is a pocket of pus that forms inside your tooth or gums. The good news is that tooth infections or abscessed tooth are easily treatable. Just as long as you do not delay treatment. Read further as we discuss signs that a tooth infection is spreading, and the complications that may arise if you do not get prompt dental attention.

How K Health Can Help

Did you know that you can get online dental prescriptions for tooth infections?

to check your symptoms using our symptom checker and text with a doctor in minutes.

K Healths board-certified, U.S.-based doctors can provide a treatment plan and, if required, a prescription to resolve your symptoms as soon as possible. Clinicians are available 24/7.

K Health has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.

You May Like: Can Keflex Be Used For Tooth Infection

A Tooth Abscess Can Spread To The Body:

A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus that forms around the tooth. Its drainage point is generally found at the root tip. You may have the following symptoms if you have a tooth abscess:

2)Extreme and sudden sensitivity to hot and cold food

3) Tooth sensitivity while eating

4) Swelling on face

5) Pimple-like pus-filled pocket near the gum line

6) swelling of lymph nodes under the jaw bone.

If you go for proper treatment, this does not get very severe. You can easily save the tooth and get rid of the abscess by getting a root canal treatment done. However, if you avoid this or keep taking OTC medications to get rid of the pain, the dental abscess has the potential of spreading to the body system and adversely affecting the heart.

Gum Disease Linked To Poor Gut Health

tooth abscess

At our Seaside dental clinic, Dr. Santos knows that a patients teeth can provide a lot of information about their health, diet, age, and identity. The health of a patients teeth can even give Dr. Santos clues about their overall health, including clues to health issues that dont even originate in the mouth. Some serious issues like cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections, and diabetes have all been linked to poor oral health in studies. Now, researchers from the University of Michigan Medical and Dental School have discovered that inflammatory bowel disease that includes ulcerative colitis and Crohns disease, may also become exacerbated in patients with poor oral health.

The results of the study were published in the journal Cell.

Read Also: Natural Remedy For Tooth Root Infection

Can Infected Gums Make You Sick

Gum disease, particularly the more severe periodontal disease, can make you sick if left untreated.

When your gum is diseased and your tooth is decayed, it allows a pathway for the harmful bacteria in your mouth to enter your bloodstream. This carries the infection through the body where it can begin to target other organs.

A gum infection can spread to the face, neck, and more distant areas of the body where the infection can become systemic, and affect multiple tissues.

People who have weakened immune systems are more likely to experience a spread of infection.

Some of the infections that can develop through the body as a result of gum disease include

  • Osteomyelitis an infection of the bone that surrounds the teeth
  • an infection of the skin and the fat that lies underneath the skin
  • Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis an infection of the blood vessels in the sinuses
  • Pharapharyngeal Abscess an abscess that appears at the back of the mouth
  • this is a life-threatening medical condition that causes the immune system to overreact to an infection in the bloodstream

What Are Typical Gerd Symptoms

GERD is a simpler way to refer to gastroesophageal reflux disease. GERD symptoms are also commonly known as heartburn or acid reflux:

  • Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
  • Feeling of a lump in your throat

The ring of muscle located between your esophagus and stomach is called the LES . GERD is a sign of a weakened the LES. This causes acid to escape into the throat and mouth. Problems with the LES is caused by intra-abdominal pressure.

This acid gives you the feeling of heartburn or acid indigestion. It can cause severe stomach pain. Some people with GERD can also develop hernias. This means that the trap door of the esophagus does not close properly.

When the seal of the stomach doesnt close, gastric acid can escape up into the throat and mouth. GERD symptoms may then affect your mouth and teeth.

Recommended Reading: Can A Sinus Infection Turn Into An Ear Infection

Some Results Of Tooth Infection On The Body

This is when bacteria from the infected too somehow enter the bloodstream it weakens the immunes system making you susceptible to simple infection and the inability of the body to be able to fight off infections. Some signs of sepsis are high temperatures reaching above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, shock and increase and rapid heartbeats.

Difficulty breathing and Respiratory Issues

Bacteria from a tooth infection can find their way to the lungs through breathing. This is especially dangerous because the lung is the best breeding ground for these bacteria to multiply with ease making it hard to breathe or more respiratory problem.

Meningitis

Contrary to the prior study, tooth infection has been linked to causing life-threatening meningitis. This disease is particularly dangerous if the patient suffering from the tooth infection has a weak immune system or suffering from an infection of the type is very risky.

Ludwigs Angina

This occurs when infection from an untreated tooth infection spreads to the throat and chest region causing swellings in the area making breathing, swallowing difficult and in worst cases death by self-suffocation. In these cases, victims have also been found with the inability to talk properly or barely inaudible when speaking due to inflammation in the throat region.

The Relationship Between Dental Health And Heart Disease

How I Healed My Tooth Infection Without Antibiotics! Dentists HATE this video.

At a broad level, research points to poor dental health as a potential risk factor for heart disease. This means that tooth pain and chest pain can be related. It has been found that people with gum disease, tooth decay, tooth loss, and tooth infections have more cardiovascular problems like heart attacks or strokes.

There are a few theories about why this can happen. When you have an infection in your tooth or gums, the bacteria from the infection can enter your bloodstream and travel elsewhere in your body, including the heart and blood vessels. We have described some examples of medical conditions where this happens already.

In addition to damage and symptoms caused by the actual unwanted bacteria present in the heart or blood vessels, the bacteria can further cause an inflammatory reaction. Inflammation occurs when the bodys own immune system responds to the bacteria. Slow or chronic inflammation from the presence of continued unwanted bacteria is damaging to the heart and blood vessels.

Another consideration is that there are other factors that link the presence of heart problems to poor oral health. For example, people who smoke are more likely to have poor oral hygiene, and people who smoke are also at greater risk for heart attacks and strokes due to the effects of nicotine. People who cannot afford or have access to healthy food options may suffer more oral health problems, and also be at risk for heart and blood vessel problems, due to poorer nutrition options.

Recommended Reading: Human Papillomavirus Infection Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure

How Long Can A Tooth Infection Go Untreated

If you wait too long to treat a tooth infection, it can begin spreading to other areas of your body, including the neck, head, or jaw. A general dentist must professionally drain an abscessed tooth by extracting it or performing a root canal.

Usually, this includes draining pus and bacteria, which is why some people are actually unaware they have an infection. It is unpredictable to determine how long a dental abscess will drain until it stops and causes facial cellulitis .

You should never pop or squeeze an abscess because the infection can be pushed deeper into the tissues of your mouth.

Risks of not treating a tooth infection promptly:

  • Infection of the blood vessels inside the sinuses
  • Bone infection surrounding the tooth
  • Parapharyngeal abscess

Summary

If you don’t receive prompt treatment for an abscess, it can lead to tooth loss, additional infections, sepsis, and even a brain abscess . Never pop an abscess.

How Gastrointestinal Disorders Affect Your Teeth

Did you know that 70 million people suffer from digestive issues? So says the American Nutrition Association. Digestive problems can take many forms ranging from acid reflux to constipation to irritable bowel syndrome. Common causes of digestive issues include not chewing food thoroughly and eating too quickly. The mouth plays an integral role in the digestive process as its where physical and chemical digestive processes begin. That means the condition of your teeth and gums can have an impact on your digestive health. Its also interesting to note that gastrointestinal disorders can similarly affect your oral health. Here, we examine the link between gastrointestinal disorders and oral health, and provide a list of digestive health resources in Gainesville.

Recommended Reading: Cdc Nursing Home Infection Preventionist Training

Surprising Effects Of An Infected Tooth

If youve had an infected tooth in the past, you know how painful it can be. But did you know that an infected tooth can affect your body and your overall health in unexpected ways? Tooth, gum, and mouth problems can cause severe pain and serious complications when left untreated, butnearly half of Americans fail to see their dentist every six months. While its never a smart idea to ignore any pain or infection in your body, an infected tooth can be serious and should always be treated by your dentist immediately, before it becomes a more serious problem. Read on to learn more about the dangers and also the suggested treatment of an infected tooth.

What Is The Link Between Oral Infections And Gastrointestinal Inflammation

Pin em Dokter hewan

Bacteria accumulate on your teeth as a result of poor dental hygiene making gums and teeth vulnerable to infection. The immune system responds by inflaming the gums to fight the infection. Only if the infection is treated and the origin of the infection is removed, the inflammation will proceed.

The gums and bone framework that hold teeth in place deteriorate over time as a result of inflammation and the chemical compounds released. Periodontitis, or serious gum disease, is the consequence. Inflammation can affect the other parts of the body as well. Oral bacteria can enter the body in a variety of ways. Bacteria from the mouth can be ingested. Read on to learn how issues with oral health can cause gastrointestinal inflammation.

Recommended Reading: Can A Sinus Infection Go To Your Brain

A Healthier Mouth = A Healthier Body

Visiting our Seaside dental clinic can dramatically help to lower your risk from a variety of serious health problems. Patients who receive regular cleanings, dental exams, and checkups have their risk for developing severe gum disease significantly reduced. Additionally, patients with gum disease can receive treatment from Dr. Santos that can help to restores their gums back to health.

Whether increasing your risk for IBD or another serious health problem, researchers have consistently found that the healthier our mouths, the healthier our bodies. During this time of COVID-19, its more important than ever that patients take their oral health seriously. Tooth decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss may seem inconsequential during a pandemic, but untreated gum disease only further weakens our immune systems. Now, when we need our immune systems working at full capacity is no time to ignore our oral health.

Contact our Seaside dental clinic to schedule your next dental exam and cleaning. If you have any questions about the impact poor oral health can have on your overall health, feel free to ask any member of our team during your next visit to Seaside Family Dentistry.

How Do I Know If My Tooth Infection Has Spread To Blood

Some indications that the infection has begun to spread

  • Puffiness of the jaw area around the tooth.
  • Soreness of the tooth and surrounding areas.
  • Facial swelling on the side of the infected tooth.
  • Fever or elevated body temperature.
  • Headaches, migraines or ear aches.
  • Also Check: When To See A Doctor For A Yeast Infection

    Get A Root Canal And Say Goodbye To Infection

    Speak with our root canal Riverside experts about the procedure and how it can prevent the spread of infection in your mouth. An infection occurs when there is a buildup of bacteria, causing plaque and tartar to form on the teeth. The longer this buildup goes unnoticed, the deeper it goes into the mouth. Sometimes, it will cause the roots of your teeth to become infected.

    A root canal procedure removes the infection from the root of your teeth so that your tooth can remain intact. This restores health to your mouth and keeps the infection from spreading to the rest of your body. For more information on a root canal procedure, and for more ways to combat tooth infection, reach out to our friendly experts at Star Dental Group Riverside today!

    Prevention Of A Tooth Abscess

    Bacteria in our mouth can cause damage to our body.

    Prevention plays a major role in maintaining good dental health. Daily brushing and flossing, and regular dental checkups can help prevent tooth decay and tooth abscesses.

    • Remember to brush, floss, and rinse as directed by your dentist.
    • If tooth decay is found early and treated promptly, cavities that could lead to abscesses can usually be corrected.
    • Avoid cigarette smoking, and donât drink too much alcohol.

    You May Like: How To Know If Your Root Canal Is Infected

    When Must You See Your Dentist

    Not every toothache becomes a severe health concern. However, if you are confronting a toothache, getting it treated before it worsens is optimal. You must call your dentist for an urgent care appointment if your toothache lasts for over 24 hours and is accompanied by fever, swelling, trouble breathing, difficulty swallowing, red gums, and pain when chewing or biting. However, if you have a broken tooth or if a tooth falls out, contact your dentist for an appointment right away.

    While waiting to see your dentist, you can find relief from over-the-counter pain relievers for comfort. However, you must avoid hot and cold foods and drinks, avoid chewing on the side of the painful tooth, and eat only soft and cool foods.

    Symptoms Of A Tooth Infection Spreading To The Body

    Poor oral health, an untreated cavity, gum disease, or even common dental procedures can lead to a tooth infection, also called a dental abscess.

    While tooth infections are painful, they typically respond well to treatment by a medical professional.

    In many cases, dentists prescribe antibiotics for tooth infections, though other treatments may be necessary if the infection is severe.

    In rarer casesusually when the abscess is left untreateda tooth infection can spread.

    Dental infections often spread locally. However, if the abscessed tooth isnt treated, the infection can continue to spread to other areas of your body and potentially cause .

    Thats why its so important to seek medical care right away if you think you may have a tooth infection.

    In this article, Ill cover the symptoms of tooth infections, and whether they can spread to other parts of your body.

    Ill outline how long a tooth abscess can go untreated, and symptoms that indicate its spread.

    Finally, Ill help determine when its time to contact a doctor, and explain some of the treatment options for a tooth infection thats spreading.

    You May Like: How To Avoid Malware Infections

    Oral Health Linked To Gut Health

    The term IBD references two conditions, ulcerative colitis and Crohns disease. Both of these conditions are hallmarked by inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. The exact cause of IBD is unknown, but the condition affects roughly three million adults in the U.S.

    As part of the study, researchers noted a connection between an overgrowth of foreign bacterial species in the stomachs of patients with IBD. This type of bacteria is normally found in the mouth. This discovery prompted researchers to further explore whether oral disease can impact the severity of certain types of gastrointestinal diseases.

    While the precise mechanism that enables an oral infection to contribute to the development of stomach ailments remains unclear, the findings of the study clearly showed that gum inflammation causes inflammation in the stomach to worsen.

    Researchers discovered two pathways where oral bacteria worsened stomach inflammation. In the first pathway, severe gum disease created an imbalance in the mouths normally healthy microbiome that led to an increase of bacteria that causes gum inflammation. This same type of bacteria can then make its way to the stomach.

    Gum disease leads to the increased presence of harmful oral bacteria in the mouth. When harmful bacteria build up, it can then be ingested and travel to the stomach. Once there, the bacteria can cause inflammation to develop in the stomach, reports the research team.

    More articles

    Popular Articles