How Dangerous Can a Tooth Infection Be?
A tooth infection indicates that bacteria have infiltrated the soft tissues of your mouth. These bacteria can spread beyond the teeth, potentially reaching other body parts within weeks or months, leading to serious, life-threatening complications. Though rare, an untreated tooth infection can indeed result in death. However, the timeline for a tooth infection to become fatal is unpredictable, varying from person to person. Factors such as the severity of the disease, individual health conditions, medical history, the timing of dental treatment, and the type of infection all play a role. This article will explain what a tooth infection is, how quickly it can spread, its symptoms, how long it can go untreated, and whether a tooth infection can be fatal. What Is a Tooth Infection? A tooth infection is a bacterial infection that impacts the teeth, gums, and jaw. Bacteria can enter these areas through cavities, cracks , exposed gums, or injuries. Once the infection sets in, it can spread f...