What is a Jaw Infection and what does it feel like?
Patients who have conditions that impact their jaw will typically work with a team of general dentists and specialists in order to properly treat the issue. The team works together in a multidisciplinary manner which allows them to collaborate and create an effective plant for treatment. This approach allows for various types of oral care specialists to be involved and ensure the best possible outcome for the patient.
Trauma to the jaw usually occurs due to an injury or accident. Many jaw injuries are the result of a sports injury. A team which includes various types of doctors will manage the jaw reconstruction process. Jaw deformities are treated with a combination of orthodontic and surgical treatments. A reconstruction team might include the following: dentist, otolaryngologist (an ear, nose and throat specialist), oral surgeon, and facial plastic surgeon. Other specialists will participate as needed. The mouth is critical and plays an important role in a patient’s appearance. A mouth or jaw which is deformed can make patients feel self-conscious. Reconstruction teams work diligently to restore both the function and appearance of the jaw.
Dental cavities which remain untreated can result in dental abscesses and jaw bone infection. Infection is caused by the formation of bacteria. Untreated infection can slowly move into the jawbone and cause severe health issues over time. The consequences of infection can be permanent. Symptoms which are most commonly associated with dental abscesses and jaw bone infection can include pain in the jaw or mouth, pus or oozing around the infected area, redness, swelling, and tenderness.
In order to evaluate a jawbone infection, the dentist will often use imaging and blood work. The dentist will often write a prescription for antibiotics in order to treat the infection. In cases of severe infection, surgery may be necessary.
If a patient has a fever or swelling in the face and they are unable to contact their dentist, they should go directly to the emergency room. Patients who are having difficulty with swallowing or breathing should also go to the nearest emergency room right away. These symptoms suggest that the infection spread to other parts of the body. It is possible for infection to spread to surrounding tissue, more deep in the jaw, and to other areas.
Patient with a dental abscess should follow up with their dentist right away. The dentist will drain the infection and prescribe the patient with antibiotics. Severe abscess treatment may require surgery to ensure the infection does not spread into the bones. While rare, it is possible that the tooth may need to be extracted. The dentist will evaluate the unique situation and advise how to proceed.
Osteonecrosis is a condition which can occur following radiation. Osteonecrosis occurs when the bones lose their blood supply or are damaged due to the radiation treatment. The loss of blood supply prevents the bones from healing. Prior to beginning radiation treatment, patients should have a dental examination to determine if they are at risk for this condition or other issues.
Tooth abscesses will not go away on their own without proper treatment. Ruptured abscesses can aid in improving the pain, however, the patient will still require treatment. Untreated abscesses can allow infection to spread into the jaw, neck, head, and other areas. Although it is rare, patients can development of sepsis, which is a life-threatening condition and impacts the patient’s organs.