A dental condition, commonly referred to as a root infection, occurs when bacteria infiltrate and induce inflammation in the root or the base of a tooth. This type of infection typically arises from various factors, including cavities, fissures, fractures in the tooth, or damage to the tooth’s tissues and nerves. As the infection progresses, it may lead to the formation of abscesses, which can further complicate the dental issue. Root infections can be quite uncomfortable and are often characterized by persistent and severe toothaches. Individuals with this condition may experience pain while chewing and biting, as well as heightened sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages. Additionally, facial swelling near the infected area can occur in some cases.
In this article, we will explore the symptoms of an infected root canal, the treatment options available, and the potential duration of such infections. Additionally, we will address common questions regarding the use of antibiotics in managing root infections and the pain associated with them. Understanding root infections and their management is crucial for maintaining good dental health and overall well-being.
What is root infection?
A bacterial infection in the root or base of your tooth can occur due to factors like cavities, fissures, and tooth fractures. This can lead to damage to the tooth’s tissues, and nerves, and ultimately result in the formation of abscesses. A persistent and severe toothache is a clear indicator of a root infection, causing discomfort when chewing and biting. Additionally, the affected area in your mouth becomes highly sensitive to hot and cold foods and beverages, and facial swelling near the injection site may also occur.
To address a root infection, a root canal procedure is typically recommended. Despite the common fear associated with root canals, it’s essential to note that the procedure is highly safe and involves minimal discomfort, as dentists administer anesthesia during the process.
What are the symptoms of an infected root canal?
It’s crucial to watch out for any indications of an infection that has gone untreated after a root canal operation. Not only is it crucial for the health of your tooth, but also for your general health, to stop the spread of a dangerous infection. The infection can be treated without causing more issues if it is discovered promptly.
Despite the rarity, a patient may begin exhibiting symptoms of a root canal infection after receiving the first treatment. You can spot an infection following a root canal by looking for a few typical indications, which include:
- Persistent pain and increased tooth sensitivity
- The formation of an abscess on or in front of the root tip
- Tooth discoloration
- Chronic bad breath
- An increasing feeling of fatigue
- Sudden fever
What happens if tooth infection spreads to the body?
When disease-causing bacteria originating from an infected tooth gain access to the bloodstream, it can result in a range of health complications. The body’s response to such bacterial invasion varies from person to person. While some individuals with untreated tooth infections may remain unaffected, others may experience the following health issues:
Bone Infection
Bacteria from an infected tooth can target the bones nearby, including the jawbone, causing osteomyelitis – inflammation of the bone or bone marrow due to bacterial infection that has entered the bloodstream. Severe cases of osteomyelitis can be extremely painful and may damage bone structures. In the worst scenarios, it can become life-threatening, necessitating a prolonged course of antibiotics and antifungal medications, typically lasting 4 to 6 weeks.
Sinus Blood Vessel Infection
Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis is a rare and life-threatening condition that results from the infection of blood vessels in the sinuses, leading to a blood clot at the base of the brain. The infection can originate from the eyes, nose, ears, or teeth and can spread through facial veins, triggering various facial disorders. Immediate treatment is imperative, involving diagnostic tests to identify the infection source and procedures to drain the disease-causing bacteria.
Skin and Fat Infection (Cellulitis)
Cellulitis is the infection of the skin’s inner layer adjacent to fat. It can affect areas such as the face, breast, or anus, with symptoms including redness around the eyes, nose, and cheeks. This condition can be painful and may progress to sepsis, a life-threatening complication. Cellulitis occurs when bacteria from a tooth root infection enter the skin’s veins and spread a bacterial infection. Treatment depends on the severity, with mild cases typically requiring up to two weeks of oral antibiotics and more severe cases necessitating a longer course of antibiotics.
Parapharyngeal Abscess
This type of infection is found deep in the neck, near the hyoid bone or the bone near the Adam’s apple. Swelling in this area can obstruct the airway, leading to breathing difficulties. Symptoms include a sore throat, fever, and neck swelling. Diagnosis involves a CT scan, and treatment typically requires surgical drainage of the abscess in the throat. If left undetected, the abscess can descend to the carotid artery, posing a greater life-threatening risk.
Sepsis (Blood Infection)
The most severe consequence of an untreated tooth root infection is sepsis, a condition in which bacterial infection spreads throughout the bloodstream, causing systemic inflammation, organ failure, and artery blockages. Sepsis can result in a drop in blood pressure, leading to the failure of vital organs like the kidneys, lungs, and liver, a condition known as septic shock. Most bacterial infections that spread through the blood can potentially lead to sepsis. Therefore, a tooth root infection is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that demands immediate attention.
Can a root canal infection go away with antibiotics?
Antibiotics can reduce inflammation and edema, but they cannot cure the tooth. Your symptoms could go away, but if the tooth is not given root canal treatment because the decay or other problem-causing factor has not been addressed, they will return fast.
How do you treat a root infection?
The germs must be eliminated to treat the root canal infection. You can achieve this through one of two methods:
- either by thoroughly disinfecting the root canal system to remove any bacteria.
- in most cases, tooth extraction is not recommended since it’s best to retain as many of your natural teeth as possible.
Before undergoing a root canal treatment, you typically receive a local anesthetic. This means the procedure should be painless and no more uncomfortable than getting a dental filling.
After eliminating the bacteria, the dentist will finalize the root canal procedure and seal the tooth with either a filling or a crown.
The inflammatory tissue next to the tooth will often recover normally.
In most cases, root canal treatment is effective. A tooth can survive a root canal procedure in roughly 9 out of 10 instances and can last up to 10 years.
How long does a tooth root infection last?
Even though you might need to take antibiotics for longer, acute oral infections usually go away in three to seven days. A thorough cleaning might be performed on you to expose the tooth and get rid of the diseased material within. To release pressure and drain pus, your doctor may sever a drainage point or create an incision in the soft tissue.
How painful is an infected root?
This discomfort might be throbbing, persistently painful, mild overall, or severe. Many people who have an infected tooth will initially just feel a little discomfort, but as the infection progresses, their pain will get greater.
Tips for Preventing Root Canal Infection
If you have concerns about the possibility of infection following your root canal treatment, there are several measures you can take to minimize the risk. These include:
- Maintaining proper oral hygiene by brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day.
- Using an antiseptic mouthwash in the initial days following the procedure, and continuing its use as needed thereafter.
- Managing any post-treatment soreness and swelling by using over-the-counter pain medication.
- Ensuring prompt follow-up with your dentist for the placement of the tooth’s crown or a permanent restoration.
Furthermore, to safeguard your oral health and monitor for any signs of infection, it is advisable to schedule dental cleanings at least twice a year. You can conveniently arrange an appointment with COH Clinic by contacting us at +90 (536) 934 6524. Prioritizing regular dental check-ups is essential for your overall oral well-being and infection prevention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a root infection feel like?
What does a root infection feel like?
A severe, acute toothache is frequently brought on by the accumulation of pus and tissue swelling inside or around an infected tooth. Usually constant, the pain is frequently described as intense, shooting, or throbbing. In addition, you could have toothache when chewing.
How painful is an infected root?
How painful is an infected root?
This discomfort might be throbbing, persistently painful, mild overall, or severe. Many people who have an infected tooth will initially just feel a little discomfort, but as the infection progresses, their pain will get greater.
How long can you have a root infection?
How long can you have a root infection?
They may persist for several months or years if untreated. Dental abscesses come in two varieties: periapical, which develops under the tooth, and periodontal, which develops in the tooth's supporting gum and bone.
Can an infected root heal on its own?
Can an infected root heal on its own?
Regrettably, a root canal procedure becomes essential for effectively addressing the diseased pulp of the tooth, as it won't naturally heal. Sometimes, when the pain subsides, patients may incorrectly assume that the infection has spontaneously resolved. In reality, this indicates that the internal nerves of the tooth have ceased to function.
