Why It’s Not a Good Idea to Harbor an Infected Tooth – Even If You Don’t Have Symptoms

by Dr. Richard J. Walicki | Aug 3, 2024 | Cavity, Infections, Oral Health, Tooth Extractions

Many patients with an infected tooth think, “I’m not in pain and haven’t been for a long time. Why extract it?” While it might seem harmless to leave an asymptomatic infected tooth alone, the truth is, it can pose significant risks to your overall health. Here are compelling reasons why you should address an infected tooth promptly, even if you’re not feeling any pain.

Hidden Dangers of an Infected Tooth

1. Silent Infections: Just because an infected tooth isn’t causing pain doesn’t mean it’s harmless. An infection is an infection, and your body has to work hard to suppress it. Over time, this can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to other illnesses and infections.
2. Spreading Infection: An untreated tooth infection can spread to other parts of your body. Bacteria from an infected tooth can travel through your bloodstream, potentially causing serious health issues like endocarditis (infection of the heart’s inner lining), cellulitis (a bacterial skin infection), or even sepsis, a life-threatening condition caused by the body’s response to infection.
3. Bone Loss: An infected tooth can lead to bone loss in your jaw. The bacteria can destroy the bone tissue around the tooth, leading to a weakened jawbone and potential tooth loss. Once bone is lost, it’s incredibly difficult to regenerate.
4. Chronic Inflammation: Your body constantly fighting off a tooth infection leads to chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. By addressing the infection, you can reduce inflammation and improve your overall health.

The Importance of Addressing Tooth Infections

1. Preserving Overall Health: By treating an infected tooth, you help preserve your overall health. Your body won’t have to continuously fight off the infection, freeing up resources to maintain a strong immune system and overall well-being.
2. Preventing Complications: Early treatment of a tooth infection can prevent serious complications. Dental infections can escalate quickly, leading to abscesses (pockets of pus), severe pain, and the need for more invasive treatments like root canals or extractions.
3. Maintaining Oral Health: An untreated infection can compromise the health of neighboring teeth and gums. By addressing the issue promptly, you can prevent further dental problems and maintain a healthy mouth.

What You Can Do

1. Regular Dental Check-Ups: Regular dental check-ups are crucial for detecting and treating infections early. Even if you’re not experiencing pain, routine visits to your dentist can help identify hidden problems and address them before they become serious.
2. Good Oral Hygiene: Practicing good oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash, can help prevent infections and maintain overall oral health.
3. Follow Your Dentist’s Advice: If your dentist recommends treating an infected tooth, it’s essential to follow their advice. Delaying treatment can lead to more severe problems down the line.

Harboring an infected tooth, even if asymptomatic, is not a wise decision. The risks to your overall health and well-being far outweigh the convenience of avoiding treatment. Remember, an infection is an infection, and addressing it promptly can prevent serious complications and improve your overall health. Don’t wait for pain to take action—prioritize your health by treating tooth infections as soon as they’re detected.

By understanding the hidden dangers of an untreated tooth infection, you can make informed decisions about your dental health and ensure a healthier future for yourself.