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How Long Can a Tooth Infection Go Untreated?

A man holding his cheek out of tooth pain.


A throbbing toothache that won't leave you is more than just an annoyance—it's a warning sign urging you to book an online dental consultation. Ignoring a tooth infection can have serious, even life-threatening consequences.

So, how long can you afford to wait before seeking help? The answer might surprise you.

What is a Tooth Infection?

A tooth abscess, commonly referred to as a tooth infection, is a bacterial infection that results in a pocket of pus infiltrating your dental pulp —the innermost section of the tooth that houses blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue

This condition can arise from untreated cavities, gum disease, or dental trauma.

Early Symptoms of a Tooth Infection

Early symptoms of a tooth infection include:

  • Persistent toothache
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
  • Swelling in the face or cheek
  • Fever
  • Swollen lymph nodes under the jaw or neck
  • Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
  • Gum Redness

Risks of Leaving a Tooth Infection Untreated

Ignoring a tooth infection can lead to severe consequences. The infection can spread to other parts of the body, causing:

  • Osteomyelitis:Infection in the bones.
  • Cellulitis:Infection in the skin and fat beneath the skin.
  • Parapharyngeal abscess:Infection in the throat.
  • Sepsis:A life-threatening infection that spreads throughout the body.

How Long Can You Wait?

It's difficult to pinpoint exactly how long you can wait before a tooth infection becomes dangerous. Generally, you should seek treatment as soon as symptoms appear.

Without treatment, a minor infection can become severe within a few days to weeks.

For worse cases, if you’re experiencing a fever as high as 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, noticing facial swelling and an elevated heart rate, it may be a sign that you need to go to the ER.

Seeking Help: Online Dental Consultations

Thanks to advancements in telemedicine, you can contact our team of experienced doctors or online dental consultations for dental infection treatments via TelMDCare. This is especially useful for those unable to visit a dentist in person due to location, time constraints, or the ongoing pandemic.

How Does TelMDCare Work?

Patient on a video call having a telemedicine consultation.


1. Book an Appointment:

Schedule an appointment that fits your schedule. Signing up is easy, and each visit costs only $39. No hidden fees, memberships, or insurance are needed. Satisfaction is guaranteed, or you get your money back.

2. Speak with a Certified Physician:

Our experienced network of physicians can address your urgent and acute care needs. Each visit includes complimentary follow-up consultations.

3. Fill Your Prescription:

We work with your local pharmacy to fulfill your prescriptions. You can easily pick them up, ready and waiting for you.

Book Your Appointment Today!

Don’t let a tooth infection linger. Seek prompt treatment to avoid complications.

With TelMDCare, you can easily access online dental consultations and get the care you need from the comfort of your home.

Book an appointment today for only $39 and ensure your health is in good hands.