An abscessed tooth doesn’t always need to be extracted; in many cases, it’s possible to treat the infection and save the tooth with a root canal. However, in more severe cases, a tooth extraction is necessary. It’s important to understand the potential risks of pulling an abscessed tooth. Although rare, it’s possible for life-threatening complications to occur, including sepsis, endocarditis, and a brain abscess.
At Innovative Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, our board-certified oral surgeons develop a personalized treatment plan in accordance with every patient’s unique needs. We’ll thoroughly evaluate your tooth abscess and try more conservative treatments if at all possible.
How Do You Know If You Have a Tooth Abscess?
A tooth abscess is a bacterial infection that leads to a pocket of pus forming inside the tooth or gum tissue. It typically develops from untreated cavities, cracks in the tooth, or gum disease, allowing bacteria to reach deep into the tooth or surrounding area.
Visually, an abscess may appear as a swollen, red lump near the affected tooth, sometimes with a pimple-like bump on the gums that may leak pus. Swelling in the face or jaw is also common, and the area often feels tender or warm to the touch.
Symptoms of a tooth abscess include severe, throbbing pain that worsens when chewing or consuming hot or cold foods. The pain may spread to the jaw, ear, or neck, and some people experience a persistent foul taste in the mouth due to draining pus. Swollen gums, facial swelling, fever, and swollen lymph nodes may also occur, signaling the infection is spreading.
What Are the Risks of Pulling an Abscessed Tooth?
Extracting an abscessed tooth might seem like a straightforward solution, but in some cases, removing the tooth without properly addressing the infection can allow bacteria to spread. The risk of complications depends on the severity of the infection and the individual’s overall health. While rare, untreated or improperly managed infections can lead to serious health issues, including:
- Brain Abscess – Though uncommon, a severe dental infection can spread to the brain, forming a life-threatening abscess. Symptoms may include intense headaches, confusion, fever, seizures, and even paralysis on one side of the body. Brain abscesses are rare but require emergency medical intervention.
- Sepsis – If bacteria from the infected tooth enter the bloodstream, the body may develop a severe immune response known as sepsis. Symptoms include fever, chills, rapid heartbeat, and swollen lymph nodes. In extreme cases, sepsis can cause organ failure and become life-threatening. While rare, sepsis from a dental infection is more likely in individuals with weakened immune systems.
- Endocarditis – If oral bacteria enter the bloodstream, they can travel to the heart and cause endocarditis, a serious inflammation of the heart’s inner lining. This condition is particularly dangerous for people with pre-existing heart conditions and requires immediate treatment with antibiotics or, in severe cases, surgery.
While these complications are not common, they highlight the importance of proper infection management before tooth extraction. In most cases, treating the abscess with antibiotics or root canal therapy is preferred to prevent bacteria from spreading. If an extraction is necessary, your oral surgeon will take precautions to minimize risks and ensure a safe recovery.
What Are the Risks of Leaving the Abscess Untreated?
It’s important to be aware of the potential risks of pulling an abscessed tooth before proceeding. However, you should also be aware of the risks of leaving a tooth abscess untreated. Tooth abscesses will never go away on their own; some sort of treatment will be necessary.
Without treatment, the infection can spread to the jaw, other parts of your head and neck, or to the sinus cavity, leading to more severe health issues, more doctor visits, longer recovery, and more bills. It’ important to seek an oral surgeon as soon as possible when you suspect have an abscessed tooth.
Get the Expert Care You Need in Pennsylvania
Your health is our top priority here at Innovative Oral Surgery & Dental Implants. That’s why each of our oral surgeons is an experienced, board-certified professional who is committed to personalized patient care and innovative treatment options.
If you have an abscessed tooth, we’ll determine the best course of treatment for you and ensure you’re fully informed before moving forward. Contact us to schedule an appointment at one of our offices in Glenside, Elkins Park, or Feasterville, PA.