No, a cracked tooth itself will not make you sick. However, the crack can provide a pathway for bacteria to enter the inner parts of the tooth, causing infection. If left untreated, infection can lead to other health issues, including jaw joint (TMJ) pain, headaches, and sinus problems.
As such, if you have a cracked tooth, it is important to see your dentist and get it evaluated, as you may need a root canal or other treatments to prevent the tooth from becoming infected. Additionally, the crack itself can eventually make chewing difficult or painful, if not treated.
Can a broken tooth cause flu like symptoms?
No, a broken tooth typically will not cause flu like symptoms. While, if a broken tooth is decay and left untreated it may lead to an infection in the gums, which can lead to more severe complications by way of bacteria entering the bloodstream and spreading throughout the body, typically this will not lead to flu like symptoms.
Flu like symptoms are usually caused by viral or bacterial infections, with common examples being the flu and pneumonia. To be sure, anyone experiencing flu like symptoms should seek the advice of a medical professional.
What are the symptoms of a tooth infection spreading?
A tooth infection spreading can cause a variety of uncomfortable and even life-threatening symptoms. Common symptoms that may occur include:
-Localized pain near the infected tooth. The pain often worsens with chewing as the infection can spread in the jawbone surrounding the infected tooth.
-Pain when pressure such as finger pressure is applied to the area.
-Fever and chills, fatigue or a general feeling of illness.
-Swollen glands in the neck.
-Swollen areas in the face around the infected tooth, which may be tender and warm when touched.
-Difficulty opening the mouth due to facial swelling.
-Bad breath and unpleasant taste in the mouth.
-The formation of an abscess, which is a pocket of pus visible in the gums near the infected tooth. An abscess often produces smelly drainage from the mouth.
If the infection is left untreated, it can spread to the neck, head, jaw, and adjacent teeth, potentially leading to a life-threatening infection of the blood, heart, and lungs. In some cases, the infection can spread via blood vessels and affect distant organs throughout the body.
Thus, when one of the symptoms of a tooth infection is present, it is important to seek prompt medical attention.
What are the early warning signs of sepsis?
Sepsis is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that is caused by your body’s response to infection. Early detection of sepsis is essential to successful treatment, so being aware of the warning signs is important.
The early warning signs of sepsis can include:
-Fever, chills or a temperature greater than 101°F
-Elevated heart rate
-Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
-Confusion or disorientation
-Low blood pressure or weak pulse
-Worsening fatigue
-Changes in mental status
-Nausea/vomiting
-Discoloration or rash
The symptoms of sepsis can also vary depending on a person’s age. Infants and children with sepsis may have additional signs, such as being irritable, not eating well, notable changes in sleeping patterns, and unusual grunting sounds during breathing.
Older adults may experience a worsening of chronic medical conditions.
For more information, it’s important to seek medical attention if you or someone you know is experiencing any of the symptoms of sepsis. It’s crucial that sepsis be identified and treated quickly in order to reduce the risk of it becoming life-threatening.
What can happens if a broken tooth goes untreated?
If a broken tooth goes untreated, it can have several serious and even life-threatening consequences. The most immediate consequence is the risk of infection, where bacteria can enter the exposed tooth and cause severe pain, inflammation and disease.
If left unchecked, this can turn into a severe gum infection, which can spread throughout the body and into the bloodstream. In the worst case scenario, it can even cause sepsis—a potentially deadly infection that can cause organ failure and even death.
In addition, the exposed dentin (inner layer of the tooth) can cause tooth sensitivity and pain when eating or drinking cold or hot foods and beverages. Furthermore, a broken tooth can also lead to tooth decay, becoming more susceptible to cavities and gum disease.
If the decay is not treated promptly, it can lead to more complex (and more expensive) dental treatments, such as root canals and dental implants, down the line. Ultimately, to avoid these unwanted and potentially life-threatening consequences, any broken teeth should be assessed and treated by a dentist as soon as possible.
When should you go to the ER for a broken tooth?
It is important to determine the severity of your broken tooth before deciding whether or not to go to the ER. Generally speaking, you should go to the ER for a broken tooth if you experience severe pain, visible damage to the tooth, or severe bleeding.
If the tooth is cracked or chipped, you should go to your dentist as soon as possible, as they can advise you on the necessary steps to protect the tooth and your overall oral health. However, if the damage is severe and there is a lot of pain involved, then it may be wise to go to the ER.
The ER can provide you with pain relief and may be able to repair the broken tooth and help prevent infection. In rare cases, the ER may need to perform surgery to repair the tooth. In any case, it is important to note that the ER will typically only be able to provide basic, temporary care and will refer you to your dentist to provide a more complete solution.
How fast can a broken tooth get infected?
It really depends on the severity of the broken tooth and the underlying health of the individual. Generally, a broken tooth can become infected in as little as a few days if the right conditions exist.
When a tooth gets broken, its protective enamel layer is broken, and this can leave it exposed to bacteria, fungi, and other organisms. If the broken tooth is left untreated and these organisms enter the tooth, then infection can occur.
The severity of the infection will depend on the type of organisms present, their concentrations, and the access they have to the deeper structures of the tooth. Also, if a person’s overall health is not good, then their bodies may not be able to fight off infection as well and it can progress more quickly.
It is quite possible to get an infected broken tooth in a matter of days, so it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible if you have a broken tooth.
How do you know if a broken tooth is serious?
It can be difficult to determine whether or not a broken or chipped tooth is serious. First, determine where and how large the chip or break is. If the break is close to the root of the tooth and is large, this can cause discomfort, tooth sensitivity, and shifting of the tooth, which can all be indications of a serious issue.
Additionally, if the broken or chipped tooth is accompanied by pain or swelling, this is another sign of seriousness. If the injury is not severe, you may be able to wait until your next scheduled dental appointment.
However, it is always best to visit a dentist as soon as possible to begin treatment as soon as possible. In some cases, the dentist may need to give you a root canal, place a crown, or repair the tooth with a filling.
The dentist will be able to provide the best advice based on your individual situation.
Can you live with a broken tooth if it doesn’t hurt?
Yes, it is possible to live with a broken tooth if it does not hurt. Depending on the type and location of the broken tooth, there are different levels of risk with leaving the broken tooth untreated.
A minor, non-painful fracture in the outer layers of the tooth may not require extensive treatment, however, even if it does not cause discomfort, the damage should still be monitored by a dentist.
Without proper treatment, a broken tooth can lead to a number of other oral health issues, including potentially more serious and irreversible damage. If the fracture exposes the inner layer of the tooth, it can open it up to bacteria, which increases the risk of cavities and infection.
Furthermore, a broken tooth may pose a risk to adjacent teeth that can lead to further instability and potential fractures.
Therefore, even if the broken tooth does not hurt, it is still important to have it examined by a dentist, who can provide the specialized care needed to ensure the best long-term result for your oral health.
How do you know if you have sepsis from a tooth infection?
If you have a tooth infection and suspect you may have sepsis, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of sepsis due to a tooth infection can vary, but may include the following: a high fever and/or chills, an increased heart rate, rapid breathing, confusion, extreme fatigue, a severe headache, pain in the affected area, nausea, and/or vomiting.
If sepsis develops, it is important to seek treatment right away to avoid more serious health problems. If left untreated, sepsis can cause organ failure, shock, and even death.
Your doctor will run tests to determine if you have sepsis and if it is due to your tooth infection. This may include a blood test, imaging procedures, and/or a physical exam. It is important to tell your doctor about all of your symptoms and when they began, as this will help them appropriately diagnose and treat the condition.
Once you have been diagnosed, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions for treatment. This may include antibiotics to clear the infection, intravenous fluids to help with dehydration, oxygen therapy, and/or surgery if necessary.
It is important to follow your doctor’s orders and take all medications as prescribed. Doing so can help to avoid further complications from developing.
How long does it take for tooth infection to spread to body?
It can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks for a tooth infection to spread to the rest of the body. It really depends on how quickly the bacteria can accumulate inside of the infected tooth, as well as how well the body’s immune system is able to fight off the infection.
The infection can spread if the bacteria enters your bloodstream and travels to other organs, such as your heart or lungs. The severity of the infection will also dictate how quickly it can spread. It is important to seek the care of a dentist or doctor as soon as you suspect a tooth infection in order to prevent the bacteria from spreading to other parts of the body.
What does it feel like when a tooth infection spreads?
Having a tooth infection spread can be very uncomfortable and painful. It may start out as a mild, throbbing pain and then gradually become more severe spread to other parts of the mouth and face. Additionally, the affected area can become swollen and sore.
Some individuals may experience a shooting sensation when attempting to open their jaw wider, difficulty drinking and/or eating, fever, other general flu-like symptoms, and bad breath. In some cases, facial swelling may occur and in extreme cases, the infection may spread to the neck, causing throat swelling and difficulty breathing.
If the infection continues to spread, a person may need to seek medical treatment. Antibiotics may be prescribed and in some cases, a root canal may be necessary.
What does dental sepsis feel like?
Dental sepsis can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, including pain, swelling, fever, and chills. If left untreated, dental sepsis can become a serious medical emergency.
The main symptom of dental sepsis is an intense toothache. Depending on the cause, the pain can be constant, throbbing, or even shooting. It may be accompanied by localized swelling near the affected tooth.
Fever may also be present. The temperature could be as low as 100.4°F (38°C) or as high as 104°F (40°C). Chills may also be experienced, and the general area where the infection has spread may feel warm to touch.
Other symptoms may include swollen lymph nodes below the jaw, swollen face, bad breath, and sensitivity to cold and hot liquids or foods. You may also see discharge or pus coming from the affected tooth or surrounding area.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your dentist immediately. If you think that dental sepsis has spread to other parts of your body, such as your bloodstream or organs, then seek medical help right away.
Will antibiotics stop tooth infection from spreading?
Yes, antibiotics can help stop a tooth infection from spreading. Taking antibiotics will help to kill the bacteria that caused the infection, and lessen the spread of infection throughout the body. Taking antibiotics as soon as the infection is detected can help to reduce any symptoms and prevent further damage.
It is important to follow up with your dentist for an evaluation to ensure that the infection has cleared. Your dentist can check for any signs of continued infection and decide on any additional treatment or antibiotics that may be necessary.
Additionally, good oral hygiene such as brushing and flossing can help limit the spread of infection and keep teeth and gums healthy.