I have a tooth infection. My dentist prescribed me an antibiotic. However, he told me not to start them until the week before treatment. My concern is he can’t see me for two weeks. I asked if that was too far away and he didn’t seem concerned. I’ve heard that a tooth infection can spread to your brain and that has me worried. Will I be in danger if I wait that long?
Karen
Dear Karen,
First, let me put your mind at ease. Your dentist would not willingly put a patient at risk. If he is saying that you can wait for a couple of weeks before starting the antibiotic, it must mean your infection is very small. He must feel confident it will not be a problem.
You are correct, though, that a dental infection can spread. Your jaw is close to your brain, heart, and lungs. Every one of them is in danger when it comes to a rapidly growing infection. This is why tooth infections are often considered dental emergencies.
In your case, it would appear your dentist isn’t concerned. Maybe that is because you’ve been diligent with your oral health care and it was caught early. Often, when you’re talking about the infections that spread, it is with patients who avoid the dentist. Instead of seeing their dentist regularly, they put it off until they are in so much pain they can no longer function.
This doesn’t appear to be your case. This is good news and will save you a significant amount of money in the long run. People who put off care, often end up unable to save their teeth, requiring a tooth extraction and then replacement.
In order to get a good replacement, such as a dental implant, it will cost more than a pretty penny.
This blog is brought to you by Libertyville Dentist Dr. David Potts.