Is a Tooth Infection Causing My Fever?

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I’ve had a low fever for two weeks, and I think a tooth infection may be causing it. At first, I thought it was the flu or some virus because I have been running a temperature and am achy. Last night, my temperature was 102.6. I know I have a few decayed teeth that I think might need fillings or root canals, but I have put off going to the dentist. Could the tooth infection be giving me a fever and making me sick? Marcus from New Haven, CT

Marcus,

You may have a tooth infection. Fever alone is not a sign of a tooth infection, but you may be right if you have decayed teeth that need root canal treatment. But please do not guess what is causing your symptoms. It is best to see a dentist promptly because you may have a tooth abscess.

What Are the Symptoms of a Tooth Abscess?

Some of the symptoms of a tooth abscess include:

  • A persistent toothache with pain in your jaw, ear, or neck
  • Sensitivity in the tooth to heat and cold
  • Pain or sensitivity when you chew or bite
  • Fever
  • Swollen face or cheek
  • Swollen or tender lymph nodes in your neck or under your jaw
  • A sudden rush of foul-smelling and foul-tasting fluid in your mouth and toothache relief if the abscess ruptures

What Is the Treatment for a Tooth Abscess?

A dentist can save an abscessed tooth with root canal treatment or surgery (apicoectomy). A tooth infection can poison your system and cause the symptoms you describe. See a dentist immediately to determine if you need a root canal treatment or a different treatment.

Dental implant components, including root form, abutment, and crown

Dental implants imitate natural teeth

Most likely, a dentist can save teeth in bad condition with root canal treatment. In rare cases, a dentist must remove and replace the tooth. Replacing missing teeth protects you from further oral health problems. When several teeth are missing, your body resorbs the jawbone and uses minerals from it elsewhere. Dental implants are the most effective treatment because they fuse with your jawbone and prevent jawbone resorption and facial sagging.

The sooner you seek treatment, the easier it will be to resolve the issue. Contact a dentist right away.

Dr. Steven Brooksher, a Baton Rouge dentist, sponsors this post.

How Long Can I Delay Root Canal Treatment?

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For the past two months, I have had cheek and jaw pain from an upper right tooth in front of where my wisdom tooth was. My sinuses and noes are achy, too. Late last week, I woke up with a sore neck, and that pain radiates into my right ear and temple. I’ve been taking antibiotics until I can afford to see a dentist. I cannot afford a root canal and certainly not a dental implant. My dental coverage only covers routine exams and cleaning. Could all these symptoms be related to my tooth? I am afraid that I will lose my tooth. I know your doctor has not seen me, but how much longer can I wait? Thank you. Joziah from TN

Joziah,

We are glad that you asked the question! You cannot afford to wait any longer. You are describing a tooth infection that is spreading. If you act quickly, a dentist might be able to save your tooth with root canal treatment. Otherwise, a dentist might need to remove the tooth.

What If You Cannot Afford a Root Canal?

If you cannot afford root canal treatment, look online for a nearby university dental school, a dental clinic, or a local dental society. Any of those organizations can direct you to dentists who treat patients that require prompt, serious care.

If you go to a hospital emergency room or an urgent care facility, they may give you pain medication or a more potent antibiotic. But eventually, you must see a dentist for root canal treatment even if you do not have dental insurance.

Are Antibiotics Enough to Treat a Tooth Infection?

Diagram of root canal treatment instead of a dental implant - from Baton Rouge denitst Steven Brooksher, DDS

The root canal process can be an alternative to tooth removal and a dental implant

Continually taking antibiotics for tooth infection can promote an antibiotic-resistant infection that becomes worse. The American Dental Association confirms that the infection can even spread without root canal treatment into the bone supporting the tooth.

The only way to treat an infected tooth is with a root canal procedure or tooth removal. A dentist will not recommend a dental implant knowing that you cannot afford it. Please do not let the cost of treatment prevent you from getting help.

Steven Brooksher, DDS of Baton Rouge, sponsors this post. Dr. Brooker is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.