Dental diseases like cavities, pulpitis and gum disease rarely prove fatal. That does not mean they cannot cause serious harm. Dr. Magomed Dakhkilgov, chief physician at the German Implantology Center and an implant surgeon, emphasizes that prompt treatment protects both teeth and the rest of the body. He is also trained as an orthopedist and periodontist and holds a degree as a candidate of medical sciences.
An oral tissue abscess is a localized collection of pus caused by a bacterial infection. Abscesses develop when deep decay reaches the tooth chamber, when complications arise, or after dental trauma. Both conditions require quick action. Signs include sharp throbbing pain, swelling on the face or cheek, trouble chewing or opening the mouth, fever, fatigue, and a general feeling of malaise. In a tooth abscess, a dentist typically drains the pus, prescribes antibiotics, and may remove the tooth to halt the infection source.
Left unchecked, dental infections can spread through the bloodstream to the heart, potentially causing endocarditis, an infection of the heart valves. The mouth has a rich blood supply, so bacteria can travel to the heart swiftly. This inflammatory process can damage valves and chambers, sometimes necessitating hospitalization and extended antibiotic therapy.
Gum disease, especially periodontitis, illustrates how a local mouth issue can become a systemic threat. If gum inflammation is ignored, the infection can move beyond the gums to the jaw and beyond, increasing the risk of tooth loss and stressing the cardiovascular system. In severe cases, patients may require cardiology care or intensive care for endocarditis. Early symptoms include fever, chills, fatigue, joint and muscle pains, and shortness of breath. With timely treatment the infection can be managed with antibiotics and long term care; in some cases surgery becomes necessary.
A rare but serious complication is cavernous sinus thrombosis, a condition in which a blood clot forms in a major vein at the base of the skull. It most often arises from infections in the face, nose or eyes and demands immediate medical attention.
Another dangerous infection is Ludwig’s angina, an acute inflammation of the floor of the mouth and the sublingual region. It causes swelling and can make breathing and swallowing difficult. It may result from infections of the teeth and gums. Treatment typically involves antibiotics and drainage of the abscess to relieve pressure and stop the spread of infection.
Warnings have been issued about the risks of overusing nasal decongestant drops. While this topic is broader than dental health, it underscores the broader truth that infections and self care should be handled by qualified professionals to avoid complications that affect the whole body.