For years, toothaches were often dismissed as common, leading many patients to wait until the pain was nearly unbearable to seek treatment. That all changed when headlines like “Tooth Infection Kills 26-Year-Old-Man” hit the internet. Practically overnight, people began to wonder whether their oral pain could actually turn fatal. Have you wondered something similar? An emergency dentist shares the answer!
So, Can a Tooth Infection Kill You?
In short, the answer is yes. The nerves in your mouth are designed to deliver the sensation of pain when something is wrong, which often is the result of an infection. Neglecting to seek treatment allows the harmful bacteria to travel throughout your body via your bloodstream, leaving you vulnerable to everything from a heart attack to diabetes. So, while the toothache itself isn’t fatal, the repercussions of it certainly can be!
7 Prevention Tactics to Implement Today
Although the above information is certainly sobering, there is good news: tooth infections are largely preventable. Therefore, if you aren’t already, make sure to implement the following practices into your oral hygiene routine:
- Visit your dentist every six months for a professional checkup and cleaning
- Brush your teeth for two minutes at least twice a day
- Floss daily
- Use mouthwash regularly
- Avoid poor dental habits, like smoking and using your teeth as tools
- Drink plenty of water
- Limit sugary foods and beverages
How Your Dentist Can Help
When it comes to your oral health, no one is a greater ally than your dentist. With this in mind, make sure to schedule (and attend!) your biannual checkup and cleaning every six months. That way, they can assess the condition of your oral cavity, detect dental concerns in the early stages, remove stubborn tartar, and prevent an infection from forming in the first place. If they do recommend a treatment, don’t put it off. Doing so can lead to serious damage to your smile, wallet, and general health.
Whether you’ve been struggling with tooth pain for weeks or just noticed it today, scheduling an appointment with your dental team is priority number one. They will handle the rest!
About the Practice
Every member of our team at Chenet Dental is united by our mission to deliver a dental experience that is the polar opposite of the run-of-the-mill, inconvenient one you’re used to. We accomplish that goal each day by never rushing through appointments, providing personalized treatment plans, and using the latest technology. The condition of your oral health is genuinely important to us, which is why we go above and beyond to keep it in pristine condition. If you are overdue for your biannual appointment or are struggling with a toothache, visit our website.