Can tooth abscesses be linked to difficulty breathing?

Doctor's Answers 2

First and foremost, I would strongly advise you to seek immediate medical/ dental attention in view of your chest tightness and breathlessness.

That, on it's own warrants some urgent attention in my opinion. There are many other possible causes of those symptoms besides the dental abscess that you described.

In severe dental abscesses, the infection can sometimes track down to the neck and chest areas which we sometimes refer to as cellulitis. In very severe cases, it can lead to a condition called Ludwig's Angina.

From your description, is it possible that the source of the tooth abscess has not been fully addressed?

Alternatively, in a scenario that the problem tooth has already been removed / treated, there could also be a risk of secondary infection of the wound.

Once again, I would strongly urge you to seek advice from your Dr as soon as possible and have the problem treated. I hope you will get well soon.

Regards

Dr Mak

I agree with Dr Chris' comments. It sounds like the tooth abscess needs further attention. Tooth abscess may lead to complication outside oral cavity.

In addition to what was mentioned by Dr Chris, it may also lead to blood borne infection. If this infection affects heart valve, it may also cause symptoms that you mentioned, in addition to having fever. This is a very serious condition and requires immediate medical attention.

It is also possible that the chest tightness and breathlessness that you mentioned were separate from the tooth abscess. In any case, your symptoms warrant immediate medical and dental attention, if you haven't already done so.

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