This blogpost will answer the question Can a decaying tooth affect your health?
And will cover topics like:What is tooth decay? What causes tooth decay?
The Dangers of Rotten Teeth.Who is at risk for tooth decay?
What are the symptoms of tooth decay and cavities?
How are tooth decay and cavities diagnosed?
What are the treatments for tooth decay and cavities?
Can tooth decay be prevented?
Can a decaying tooth affect your health?
Yes , tooth decay can affect your health. Tooth decay and other gum problems can affect your overall health and lead to serious medical conditions including brain and heart infections.
What is tooth decay?
The gradual destruction of the tooth’s outermost layer enamel is called tooth decay. Enamel is the protective outer layer which when destroyed by the action of bacteria leads to tooth decay. As the bacteria in the mouth comes in contact with the starchy and sugary food,it produces acid which slowly destroys the enamel. This slow destruction ultimately results in a cavity.
What causes tooth decay?
As we all know there are millions of bacteria present in our mouth some of which may be good for us while some of them might be harmful.
The harmful bacteria is involved in the process of tooth decay.
When the food particles get accumulated in the mouth, the bacteria combine with it and form a thick, white sticky film covering the tooth, called plaque. The bacteria then starts producing acid which demineralizes the enamel leading to tooth decay. Also as the plaque deposits keep on adding overtime it becomes hard calculus which leads to gum inflammation and other gum diseases.
As the enamel demineralizes, the enamel develops white spots which is the earliest sign of tooth decay. If the decay is caught at this stage it can be reversed by taking proper care of your teeth which involves good oral hygiene practices and limiting sugary and starchy foods.
We get fluoride from water,toothpaste etc. this helps the enamel to remineralize and repair itself. This is a natural process and helps protect the teeth by restoring the natural minerals of the teeth. But it is important to know that this process will not resolve your dental problems in later stages and hence you should take care of your teeth to prevent decay and other problems. If not, the process of tooth decay will continue over time and would lead to a cavity.
The Dangers of Rotten Teeth.
Trembling Hands
Decayed or rotten teeth can make the immune system weak over time and this can result in weakness and show signs like trembling hands.
Low energy
Severe tooth decay consumes energy from the body’s reservoirs which results in low energy.
Poisoning in bloodstream
The decayed part of the tooth is full of harmful bacteria, which if left unattended can enter into the body through saliva. This can result in poisoning of the blood. This takes a long period of time to happen and is not an immediate consequence. The toxins can enter the body and poison blood and other organs as well.
Gum Disease
Ignoring decaying tooth can lead to gum inflammation in later stages. Gum inflammation leads to serious gum diseases like periodontitis which can even result in loss of one or multiple teeth. Periodontitis is a serious condition and has a very poor prognosis.
Sepsis
Harmful bacteria and toxins from decaying tooth can overtime move into the bloodstream and other organs which can cause serious infection/sepsis. Sepsis is a blood infection that commonly attacks people with low immune systems.
Meningitis
A decaying tooth can lead to an abscess around the lower part of the roots. This tooth abscess could lead to a life-threatening condition called meningitis. Meningitis is the inflammation of the membranes near the spinal cord and brain. Meningitis is a serious illness and usually people who have a weak immune system are at a higher risk of acquiring this disease.
Respiratory infections
People with attended dental caries and periodontal disease constantly breathe in harmful bacteria and toxins from decayed teeth and infected gums, which over time can lead to respiratory tract infections like pneumonia and pulmonary diseases such as COPD
Diabetes
Diabetes and dental problems are a “two-way street”. People with diabetes have a higher chance of developing dental problems due to weaker immune systems. They are more susceptible to infections. At the same time people with decaying tooth have a difficult time controlling sugar,which increases the chances of developing diabetes.
Dementia
According to some studies, poor oral health has an effect on the brain. Some substances and toxins released by decaying tooth and inflamed gums can actually kill brian cells leading to dementia and even Alzheimer’s disease.
Cardiovascular Disease
Decaying tooth slowly keeps on releasing bacteria and toxins. When the bacteria and toxins start entering the bloodstream, it might start accumulating in the arteries as plaque and harden. This leads to reduced thickness of the arteries making the blood flow constricted, this is called atherosclerosis, and is very serious. This interference with the blood flow can lead to heart blockages and increased risk of heart attack.Also the damaged arteries may lead to hypertension and even a stroke.
Pregnancy Complications
It is very important for pregnant women to practice good oral hygiene. A Lot of hormonal changes happen in the body during pregnancy and make pregnant women susceptible to oral infections. Development of any sort of infection during pregnancy can put the baby and the mother at risk of unexpected complications. Oral health problems in the mother can lead to premature birth and low birth weight in infants.
Infertility
It has been claimed that gum disease can lead to various overall health issues that can make it more difficult for a woman to conceive and sustain a healthy pregnancy. It can actually take longer for a woman with poor oral health to get pregnant than a woman who has good dental health.
Erectile Dysfunction
Having poor oral hygiene puts a man at an increased risk for suffering from erectile dysfunction. Chronic periodontal disease is known to be related with ED.
Cancer
Poor oral health practices such as smoking or using tobacco products can lead to oral and throat cancers, but some other cancers are linked to gum diseases kidney cancer, pancreatic cancer, and blood cancers.
Kidney Disease
People with poor oral health, decaying teeth can acquire infection because of a weaker immune system. These infections can easily lead to kidney disease and may even lead to chronic kidney disease which is a serious health problem that affects the kidneys, heart, bones, and blood pressure. Kidney disease can become fatal if it leads to kidney failure or cardiovascular disease.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
The oral bacteria from gingivitis can increase inflammation throughout the body hence people with gum disease were four times more likely to have Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Who is at risk for tooth decay?
People who do not take care of their teeth and consume a lot of sugary and starchy foods are majorly at risk of tooth decay.
Some people might be at risk of tooth decay despite taking care of their teeth. These include:
People with reduced saliva secretions due to certain medications or medical conditions.
People with low fluoride intake
Young infants who drink from bottles are at risk, as their teeth are constantly exposed to sugars for longer durations.
Old people with receding gums. When the gums recede,the sensitive part becomes exposed which is very much susceptible to tooth decay.
What are the symptoms of tooth decay and cavities?
During the initial stage, there are no such symptoms but as the decay progresses the following symptoms can be felt and seen:
Tooth pain
Tooth sensitivity to sweets, hot, or cold and sometimes air
White or brown stains on the tooth surface
A cavity, in later stages
An infection, which can lead to an abscess.
Facial swelling, and fever.
Bad breath
Unpleasant taste
How are tooth decay and cavities diagnosed?
Dentists usually do an oral examination where he checks for stains and also checks the strength of the tooth by using a dental probe. If the dentist finds that the decay has progressed further, he may do an x-ray to do a final diagnosis.
What are the treatments for tooth decay and cavities?
Treatment for tooth decay depends on its severity.
Fluoride treatments
It is done when the decay is captured at a very early stage. Fluoride treatment helps the enamel to remineralize and repair itself.
Fillings
If the decay is on the surface itself, the dentist would suggest you get a filling done. For this the decayed portion of the tooth is removed and fill it with a dental filling, thereby restoring the natural shape of the tooth.
Root canal
In cases where the decay has progressed to the roots and the pulp, your dentist would recommend a root canal treatment (RCT). In this the decayed pulp is removed and the root canals are cleaned and filled with an appropriate filing material. You may also need to get a crown after RCT to cover the tooth.
Extraction (removal of the tooth)
In severe cases where there is no hope that the tooth will survive, extraction is advised. After the extraction you may need to undergo further treatment for the replacement of the missing tooth.
Can tooth decay be prevented?
Practising good oral habits and dental hygiene can help avoid cavity, tooth decay and other dental problems. Here are some tips for maintaining good oral hygiene.
Brush with fluoride toothpaste after eating or drinking.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride-containing toothpaste. Floss regularly to clean the food stuck in between the teeth.
Visit your dentist periodically for regular oral exams to get professional teeth cleanings done when required.
Drink fluoridated water. Usually tap water and most public water are fluoride treated and hence fit for drinking.
Avoid frequent snacking.
Try to eat tooth-healthy foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables that stimulate saliva secretions.
Consider fluoride and antibacterial treatments, if your dentist suggests.. Chewing xylitol-based gum along with prescription fluoride and an antibacterial rinse can help reduce the risk of cavities.
Oral health is an indicator of overall health. Taking care to prevent oral health problems like gingivitis and periodontal disease can go a long way toward decreasing the risk for more serious health problems throughout the body.
Frequently asked questions (FAQS)
What happens if tooth decay is left untreated?
If tooth decay is left untreated for a long time it may lead to infection of the pulp and roots which is extremely painful and would require you to undergo a root canal treatment or worse, an extraction.
What are some serious side effects of tooth decay?
Tooth decay may lead to pain, tooth abscess, gum inflammation, tooth sensitivity etc. It can also lead to serious health problems like kidney infection, cardiovascular disease, sepsis,meningitis etc
Can a tooth infection affect your whole body?
Yes, an untreated tooth infection can affect your whole body in later stages. It can lead to serious infections in the bloodstream, respiratory system, kidney, and other parts of the body.
Can rotten teeth cause stomach problems?
Yes, rotten teeth can cause stomach problems like pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting etc.
Can rotten teeth be replaced?
Yes, a rotten tooth can be replaced. When the tooth has decayed to a point where it cannot be saved, extraction (removal) of the tooth is the only option. After extraction your dentist would give you multiple options to replace the tooth such as implant, bridge etc.
FAQs
Can decayed teeth affect your body? ›
Tooth decay does more damage than simply breaking down your teeth. It can lead to infections that can spread to the other parts of the body, it can increase your risk of heart disease and it can weaken your immune system.
What organs does tooth decay affect? ›Your heart is not the only organ at risk when it comes to gum disease. Teeth infections can also harm the uterus, kidney, the endocrine system, and the nervous system.
What happens if a decayed tooth is not removed? ›An untreated cavity can lead to an infection in the tooth called a tooth abscess. Untreated tooth decay also destroys the inside of the tooth (pulp). This requires more extensive treatment, or possibly removal of the tooth.
Can an infected tooth cause other health issues? ›If left untreated, a tooth infection can lead to heart, lung, and brain problems that you can die from in the most severe cases. Untreated dental infection can also swell your tongue or mouth, which may severely restrict breathing.
When does a decayed tooth have to be removed? ›If the decay reaches the soft center of the tooth, the pulp, it can cause an infection. Often a dentist can treat this infection by performing a root canal treatment. However, if the infection is severe, the dentist may need to perform a tooth extraction to ensure the infection does not spread.
What happens when a tooth completely decayed? ›Overview. Tooth decay (dental caries) is damage to a tooth that can happen when decay-causing bacteria in your mouth make acids that attack the tooth's surface, or enamel. This can lead to a small hole in a tooth, called a cavity. If tooth decay is not treated, it can cause pain, infection, and even tooth loss.
When can a decayed tooth not be saved? ›However, saving your tooth is not always possible. If your tooth is cracked or broken due to trauma, especially below the gum line, there may not be any way to preserve the tooth.
How do you know if a tooth infection has spread to your body? ›Signs of Tooth Infection Spreading to Body
Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, especially food and drinks. Pain that radiates from the tooth outward. Swelling in the cheeks or gums. Constant bad breath.
- Feeling Unwell. The first thing you may notice is that you start to feel unwell. ...
- Fever. Fever is your body's natural defense against infection. ...
- Swelling. ...
- Increased Heart and Breathing Rate. ...
- Dehydration and Stomach Pain.
Now you might be wondering, if the mouth is an entry point for bacteria, infection, and inflammation, can my dental health affect my immune system? The short answer is yes. There are many bacteria associated with the mouth, and each has an immune suppression effect.
Can tooth decay affect kidneys? ›
Both tooth decay and gum disease can lead to infections that can cause problems for people with kidney disease and those who have diabetes. Tooth decay and gum disease are caused by plaque.
Can tooth decay cause liver problems? ›Studies suggest that periodontal disease, a source of subclinical and persistent infection, may be associated with various systemic conditions, including liver cirrhosis.
Can rotten teeth cause stomach problems? ›In cases of severe, untreated tooth decay and infection, sepsis may result, which can present with gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.
Can tooth decay affect lungs? ›Pulmonary actinomycosis is caused by certain bacteria normally found in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract. The bacteria often do not cause harm. But poor dental hygiene and tooth abscess can increase your risk for lung infections caused by these bacteria.
What symptoms can tooth decay cause? ›- toothache – either continuous pain keeping you awake or occasional sharp pain without an obvious cause.
- tooth sensitivity – you may feel tenderness or pain when eating or drinking something hot, cold or sweet.
- grey, brown or black spots appearing on your teeth.
- bad breath.
Tooth decay is caused by Streptococcus mutans (S mutans) bacterial infection. The cariogenic bacteria are transmissible from mother or caregiver to children.
What deficiency can cause tooth decay? ›Vitamin D plays a key role in bone and tooth mineralization, and when levels are unregulated it can lead to the “rachitic tooth”, which is a defective and hypomineralized organ highly susceptible to fracture and decay [35,36].
Can tooth decay affect your brain? ›Also, poor oral hygiene might lead to increased bacteria in the mouth and to gum disease, which can cause inflammation and raise the risk of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain, leading to dementia.
What medications can cause tooth decay? ›- Antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl)
- Decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine)
- Opioid pain medications, like hydrocodone/acetaminophen (Norco)
- High blood pressure medications (e.g., propranolol)
- Antidepressants (e.g., selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors like fluoxetine)
Though it's incredibly rare, in some instances, a tooth infection can spread to the brain and become a brain abscess, or a pus-filled swelling in the brain.
Can tooth decay cause fatigue? ›
Feeling Unwell and Fatigued
Once your tooth infection begins to worsen, you may start experiencing symptoms similar to a cold or flu. Along with a nagging toothache, you will have chills and sweats along with a headache. In addition, pain may travel to your jaw and ear.
The bacteria from the mouth can pass into the intestines, contributing to inflammation and digestive problems. This may be especially likely to happen in individuals with severe gum disease, who have an imbalance in their oral microbiome due to an abundance of disease-causing bacteria.
How do I know if my tooth infection has spread to my heart? ›- fever.
- swelling.
- dehydration.
- increased heart rate.
- increased breathing rate.
- stomach pain.
Here are 12 organ systems and the teeth they're connected to through one of the meridians: Lungs – Upper premolars, lower first and second molars. Large intestine – Upper premolars, lower first and second molars.