A dead tooth, also known as a non-vital tooth, happens when the nerves inside the tooth die, usually due to decay, injury, or infection. While it may not always be painful, a dead tooth poses serious health risks if left untreated. So, “How long can a dead tooth stay in your mouth?” Technically, it could remain there for weeks or even months, but this is not recommended.
- The longer it stays, the higher the risk of infection.
- Infections can spread to your gums, jawbone, or even other teeth.
- A dead tooth may appear gray or black due to lack of blood flow.
- While it may not cause immediate discomfort, it’s bad for your teeth in the long run.
Contact an emergency dentist in Langley at the first sign of a dead tooth to prevent further complications.
Can a Dead Tooth Kill You?
Although it’s uncommon, leaving a dead tooth untreated can lead to life-threatening complications. Here are the potential dangers:
- A dead tooth can cause an infection around the root of the tooth. This infection can lead to a pocket of pus forming.
- This abscess can spread to nearby tissues in your mouth, face, and neck.
- If the infection enters your bloodstream, it can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition.
- In rare cases, a severe tooth infection could spread to your heart or brain.
- Prompt treatment from a dental professional can prevent these serious outcomes.
How to Save a Dying Tooth Naturally
If you’re wondering how to save a dying tooth naturally, it’s important to note that natural remedies may help reduce symptoms temporarily, but professional dental treatment is essential for fully resolving the issue. However, here are a few things that can help improve your oral health in the short term:
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: One should practice brushing and flossing every day in order to avoid the destruction of more tissues by bacteria exposure.
- Proper Nutrition is Vital: Calcium and vitamin D replenishing foods are good for the teeth and bones.
- Use Clove Oil: This natural remedy has anti-inflammatory properties that can temporarily alleviate pain.
- Saltwater Rinse: Gargling with warm salt water can reduce inflammation and help kill harmful bacteria.
- Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse: This can serve as a temporary remedy to disinfect the area, though it won’t fix the root cause.
Always remember that while these steps may provide temporary relief, a visit to your dentist is the only way to truly save your tooth or prevent further complications.
Signs That Your Tooth Is Dying
Knowing the earlier signs of a dying tooth will assist you in seeking treatment before it is too late. Pay attention to the following:
- Change in the tooth colour: A dying tooth will eventually turn gray, brown, or black because blood flow to it is reduced.
- Pain in the teeth or sensitivity: While a dead tooth may not be painful all the time, excessive sensitivity to heat or cold is also alarming.
- Swelling: A dead tooth can cause the gums around it to become swollen and sore to touch.
- Foul taste in the mouth or bad breath: Bad breath and taste in the mouth of a dead tooth can also occur when there is pus around it.
- Loose Tooth: If the dead tooth appears to be moveable, this may indicate that it has undergone a lot of bacteria growth and has collapsed.
What Happens If You Don’t Treat a Dead Tooth?
Ignoring a dead tooth can lead to severe and irreversible damage. Here’s what can happen:
- Tooth Loss: Without treatment, the tooth will eventually fall out or require extraction.
- Bone Deterioration: The surrounding jawbone may begin to deteriorate as the infection spreads.
- Sinus Complications: Dead teeth in the upper jaw can affect your sinuses, causing chronic infections.
- Spread of Infection: A dead tooth left untreated can allow bacteria to spread throughout your body.
- Costly Dental Procedures: If you wait longer, you may need more painful and costly work in the future, such as root removal, implants, or surgery.
Protect Your Smile from Dead Teeth with Cornerstone Dental
If you suspect you have a dead tooth, don’t delay treatment. Leaving a dead tooth untreated can lead to severe dental and health issues. At Cornerstone Dental Centre, we provide expert care to help you address and resolve any dental problems. Contact a dentist in Langley today to protect your oral health and prevent further complications.
Book your appointment now and ensure a healthy, confident smile!