The Hidden Dangers of Toothache: What You Need to Know
We’ve all heard it before: “It’s just a toothache.” Sometimes, we even say it ourselves. But there’s a good reason dentists recommend removing a problematic tooth when plaque has taken over. Besides being pretty gross, it’s risky for your health.
Our bodies are incredible. They pick up on our surroundings effortlessly and can adjust for quicker reflexes and more strength when needed. In emergencies, adrenaline lets us push our limits for a short time.
The main idea here is that our bodies are built to be aware of both our environment and our internal state. When you’re sleepy, your body is telling you to rest. When you’re hungry, it’s time to eat. Similarly, a toothache—or any kind of pain—is your body’s way of signaling that something is wrong.
According to Dr. Peter Chien’s office in Bellevue, toothaches act like home security alarms for your body. They go off when your body detects something foreign, like pathogens or harmful microorganisms.
How Does Tooth Decay Happen?
Tooth decay occurs when bits of food get stuck between your teeth for too long. This usually means you’re not brushing properly or maybe not brushing at all. Essentially, the food starts to rot in your mouth. And rotten food can become septic, leading to serious infections that could be easily avoided with proper dental care or a timely tooth extraction.
Why is Tooth Decay Dangerous?
The real danger is that the infection can easily spread. It usually starts with your gums, leading to painful, pus-filled abscesses. If these pathogens reach your brain, it could result in severe health issues or even death. The infection could also spread to your bloodstream or lungs, both of which are extremely dangerous and potentially fatal.
While deaths from tooth decay are rare, they do happen, and they are a grim reminder of the importance of dental health.
Conclusion
So, can you die from a toothache? Not directly. Think of a toothache as a pain signal—pain itself doesn’t kill. However, the underlying cause of that pain, if ignored, can lead to serious and potentially deadly complications like infections. Taking a toothache seriously and addressing it promptly is crucial for your overall health.
