What is a Jaw Infection and What Does it Feel Like
People suffering from jaw pain may be curious if their discomfort is due to a jaw infection. Although quite rare, an infected jawbone can occur and when it does, could necessitate immediate medical intervention. The condition typically occurs when microbial infections reach the bone through abscessed teeth, periodontal (gum) lesions, or traumatic injury. In fact, jaw infections can also develop from highly sought-after dental restorations if not handled properly.
Continue reading to learn more about jaw infections, the symptoms, types, and treatments.
Jaw Osteomyelitis Overview
Osteomyelitis is an infection or inflammation of the bone marrow or bone. The condition most frequently impacts the bones of the spine, pelvis, and extremities. While the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is infrequently affected by the condition, when it is, it can create severe issues with jaw and facial bones.
The infection most often results from bacteria that enter the body because of insufficient oral hygiene or following oral surgery procedures like a root canal treatment. Alcoholics, diabetics, and people with other disease affecting the immune system, are at a higher risk of developing the condition. Additionally, jaw injuries, dental abscesses, and other surgical treatments prior to oral surgery, can elevate the risk.
Jaw Infection Symptoms
Jaw osteomyelitis signs and symptoms include:
- Pain in the jaw
- Stiffness of the jaw
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Swelling of the face
- Sinus drainage
- Tenderness when touched
- Tooth loss
- Yellowish fluid or pus
- Neck and head pain
In the case of a dental abscess, patients should seek immediate treatment with a dentist. The dentist will try to drain the infection and likely prescribe an antibiotic. In severe cases, it may be necessary to extract the affected tooth to avoid disease from further spreading in the bones.
Osteomyelitis Types and Treatments
Osteomyelitis comes in three main types and treatment will vary based on the severity of infection.
Acute Osteomyelitis
Within two weeks following trauma, the infection in acute osteomyelitis causes initial illness and signals the start of underlying disease. Severe discomfort can result, and the situation can be life-threatening.
Typically, a course of antibiotics is an option. This is usually done intravenously over a four-to-six-week course for adults. In some instances, patients may require treatment in a hospital whereas others can receive injections on an outpatient basis or at home if able to do themselves.
Sub-Acute Osteomyelitis
With this type, infection sets in within one-to-two months of trauma, initial contamination, or beginning of an underlying condition. Treatment varies based on the seriousness and whether or not new bone damage has occurred. If no bone damage has occurred, treatment is the same as acute osteomyelitis cases. But should damage have occurred, treatment resembles that of chronic osteomyelitis cases.
Chronic Osteomyelitis
With chronic osteomyelitis, infection starts about two months following initial injury, infection, or beginning of underlying disease. Often, patients will need both surgery and antibiotics to correct any harm to the bone. Antibiotics may be prescribed for a longer period, possibly years, to suppress infection. And in certain cases, some persistent infections could require removal of all or portions of the affected bone.