A chipped tooth might appear to be a small issue, but could it result in a more serious problem, such as an infection? The answer is yes. If left untreated, a chipped or cracked tooth can provide an entryway for bacteria, potentially causing tooth decay, infection, and even a dental abscess. Can a chipped tooth get infected? Should the infection progress, it may spread beyond the mouth and lead to significant health complications.
In this guide, we’ll explore why a chipped tooth can become infected, the warning signs to watch for, and how to prevent and treat complications before they escalate.
What Happens When You Chip a Tooth?
Tooth enamel is the hardest material in the human body, but it’s not indestructible. A chipped tooth occurs when this protective layer is damaged due to biting hard foods, chewing on hard candy, teeth grinding, or experiencing trauma from contact sports.
A minor chip may not cause immediate discomfort, but a hairline crack or deeper fracture can expose the tooth’s root and inner dental pulp, increasing the risk of infection. When bacteria enter the tooth, they can travel down to the blood vessels and nerves, leading to an infected pulp and potentially causing a tooth abscess.
Additionally, when a cracked tooth goes unnoticed, it can worsen over time. Pressure from chewing or consuming hot or cold foods can further damage the tooth, making it more vulnerable to bacterial invasion. If the infection spreads, it may impact nearby teeth, gums, and even the jawbone, potentially resulting in severe complications.
Can a Chipped Tooth Lead to an Infection?
Yes, a chipped tooth can become infected if bacteria infiltrate the exposed tooth structure. This can occur when:
- The dental pulp becomes exposed when a tooth fracture extends deep into the tooth.
- A crack allows bacteria to enter and cause tooth decay.
- A broken tooth is left untreated, leading to infection in the root.
- Poor oral health increases bacterial growth around the damaged area.
- The chip worsens over time due to continued exposure to hot or cold foods and pressure from chewing.
When an infection develops, it can spread to nearby teeth, gums, and even the jawbone, resulting in serious complications if left untreated. In some cases, an untreated infected tooth may even contribute to life-threatening systemic infections if the bacteria enter the bloodstream.
Signs Your Chipped Tooth May Be Infected
Recognising the early signs of an infected tooth is crucial for timely treatment. Here’s what to watch for:
- Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods
- Throbbing pain that worsens over time
- Swollen gums or visible pus around the affected tooth
- Severe pain when biting or chewing
- A foul taste in the mouth
- Facial swelling or tenderness
- Fever, which may indicate a spreading bacterial infection
- Gum disease symptoms such as bleeding or redness near the affected tooth
- Bad breath that persists despite proper oral hygiene
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your dental office immediately to prevent serious health issues. Ignoring an infected tooth can lead to permanent damage to your natural tooth and its surrounding structures.
Treatment Options for a Chipped and Infected Tooth
If you have a chipped tooth that has become infected, there are several treatment options available depending on the severity of the damage and infection. Here’s what your dentist may recommend:
1. Dental Bonding
For small chips, dental bonding is an effective solution to reshape the tooth and prevent further damage. This process involves applying a tooth-coloured resin, which hardens and seamlessly integrates with the surrounding tooth structure.
2. Dental Crown
If the tooth structure is significantly weakened, a dental crown can be fitted over the tooth to restore its strength and provide protection against further damage and bacterial infiltration..
3. Root Canal Therapy
If the infection spreads to the tooth’s root, root canal therapy may be necessary. This procedure removes the infected pulp, thoroughly disinfects the area, and seals the tooth to prevent future infection.
4. Tooth Extraction
If the tooth is beyond repair, extraction may be the only solution. In such instances, a dental implant or bridge can be used to restore the missing natural tooth.
5. Antibiotics
If the infection is extensive or has begun to spread, antibiotics may be prescribed to manage the bacterial infection before further treatment is carried out.
If you suspect your chipped tooth is infected, seek dental care promptly to avoid serious health issues.
How to Prevent a Chipped Tooth from Getting Infected
To avoid serious complications, take these steps:
- Visit your dentist promptly after chipping a tooth to receive early treatment.
- Practise good oral hygiene habits by brushing and flossing daily to prevent bacterial buildup.
- Avoid biting hard foods like hard candy, ice, or non-food objects.
- Use a mouthguard while playing contact sports or if you experience teeth grinding at night to protect your teeth from damage.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups to monitor for hidden cracks or decay.
- Be mindful of teeth sensitivity and address discomfort early before it leads to bigger issues.
Early treatment of a chipped tooth can prevent a painful dental emergency and potentially life-threatening health problems.
When to See a Dentist
If you feel pain, experience tooth sensitivity, or notice further damage to a chipped or cracked tooth, seek dental care immediately. Early treatment can help protect teeth, prevent serious health issues, and preserve your oral health.
Neglecting a chipped tooth can result in serious complications, including an infected tooth or a dental abscess. Addressing the issue early can help you avoid more extensive and expensive treatments later on.
Why Timely Treatment Matters
Ignoring a chipped or cracked tooth can lead to serious complications, including:
- Tooth decay and further tooth damage
- Development of a dental abscess
- Possible need for tooth extraction if left untreated
- Risk of the infection spreading to the jawbone or bloodstream, causing serious health problems
Final Thoughts
A chipped tooth may not seem like an urgent issue, but if left untreated, it can lead to tooth infection, serious complications, and even life-threatening conditions. Good oral hygiene, timely treatment, and regular dental visits can help prevent infections and keep your smile healthy.
If you suspect a chipped tooth is causing severe pain or discomfort, schedule a consultation today at (08) 7078 8263. Addressing the issue early can save your natural tooth and prevent long-term health problems.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
- Healthline. (n.d.). Tooth extraction. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/tooth-extraction
- Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Antibiotics for tooth infections. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/antibiotics-for-tooth-infections
- WebMD. (n.d.). Dental crowns. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-crowns