Tooth Infection Symptoms & Treatment in Ventura, CA | Ventura Bright Dental

How an Infected Tooth Can Affect Your Overall Health | Ventura Bright Dental

A tooth infection isn’t just painful—it can also put your overall health at risk. When bacteria spread from an infected tooth into surrounding tissues or even your bloodstream, it can cause serious, long-term health problems. At Ventura Bright Dental, we help patients in Ventura, CA treat infections early and restore their smiles before complications arise.

Common Signs of a Tooth Infection

Wondering if your toothache might be more serious than a cavity? Watch for these common symptoms:

• Persistent or throbbing tooth pain (especially at night)

• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods

• Swelling, redness, or tenderness in the gums

• Pus drainage or a bad taste in the mouth

• Fever, chills, or swollen lymph nodes

• Difficulty chewing, biting, or speaking

If you’re experiencing two or more of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule a dental exam right away. An untreated infection can spread quickly and cause damage to neighboring teeth or bone.

Short-Term Effects of an Untreated Tooth Infection

When left untreated, a tooth infection can cause immediate discomfort and visible swelling. You may notice:

• Severe pain and inflammation: Infection puts pressure on the nerves and tissues around the tooth, leading to throbbing pain.

• Fever and fatigue: Your body’s immune system reacts to the infection, causing fever and general weakness.

• Trouble eating or talking: Swelling and tenderness make it difficult to chew or open your mouth.

• Spread to nearby teeth and bone: Infection can damage surrounding tissues, sometimes requiring root canal therapy or tooth extraction.

How a Tooth Infection Affects Your Whole Body

An untreated tooth infection doesn’t just stay local—it can affect your entire body. When bacteria enter the bloodstream, serious complications can occur, including:

• Bacteremia: Bacteria spread through the blood, leading to systemic infection.

• Endocarditis: Oral bacteria can reach the heart and cause dangerous inflammation.

• Respiratory infections: In rare cases, infection can spread to the lungs and cause pneumonia.

• Links to chronic conditions: Research shows oral infections can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Taking care of your oral health is one of the best ways to protect your whole-body wellness.

What to Do if You Have a Tooth Infection

If you suspect you have an infected tooth, contact Ventura Bright Dental immediately for an exam and treatment.
In the meantime, you can manage your symptoms by:

• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers (as directed)

• Rinsing with warm salt water to reduce swelling and bacteria

• Avoiding very hot, cold, or hard foods

• Refraining from biting or chewing on the affected side

Prompt treatment can prevent the infection from spreading and protect your long-term dental health.

Schedule Your Appointment in Ventura, CA

Don’t ignore the signs of a tooth infection. Protect your smile and your health with expert dental care from Ventura Bright Dental.

Ventura Bright Dental
3450 Loma Vista Rd, Ventura, CA 93003
(805) 666-1919

Call today or request your appointment online — our caring team is here to help you restore comfort and confidence in your smile.

Disclaimer:

The information on this website is for educational purposes only. Ventura Bright Dental is not responsible for any decisions made based on this content. Always consult your dentist or healthcare professional for advice specific to your situation.