Can you die from a tooth infection?

Yes, in rare circumstances a tooth infection can be fatal!

In some cases, a very serious tooth infection can spread through bone to the brain or result in other fatal repercussions. A tooth infection which causes visible swelling in your face is an incredibly serious condition that requires immediate attention by a Kanas City Emergency Dentist. Those with less than full strength immune systems such as the elderly and those with other conditions detrimental to the immune system, are especially at risk for higher morbidity rates from tooth infections. Yikes.

If left untreated a tooth infection can spread to other parts of the body, such as the jaw, neck, or even the brain, leading to serious complications like sepsis (a life-threatening response to infection), bacterial endocarditis (infection of the heart's inner lining), or a brain abscess. The treatment for most tooth infections is either a root canal or removal of the tooth, with or without a prescription for oral antibiotics.  With severe infections, intravenous antibiotics may be required to completely eradicate the infection, if oral antibiotics are ineffective.

If you are experiencing symptoms of a tooth infection, like dull persistent or throbbing tooth pain, swelling in the face or jaw, fever, or difficulty breathing or swallowing, it's important to seek medical attention immediately to prevent the infection from spreading and possibly causing grave medical consequences. An emergency dentist will be able to quickly diagnose and treat your tooth infection.

In the United States with the availability of advanced medications (such as antibiotics) and medical technologies, only about 1 in 1000 people admitted to the hospital for a tooth infection will die because of it. (Thats still too many though) However in less developed countries this rate is much higher. In developing countries where quality medical care is scarce, a tooth infection can quickly become a very serious and deadly situation. A tooth infection is one of the most common dental emergencies we encounter at South Kansas City Emergency Dental.

You can reach Emergency Dental of South Kansas City at (816) 601-1817.  Emergency Dental of South Kansas City is an affordable emergency dentist in Cass County, Missouri. We offer a variety of treatments designed to relieve severe dental pain, including root canals and tooth extractions.