When you’re starting to feel a little sick, you may notice some swelling on the sides of your neck. Those tiny lumps feel soft and tender to the touch and may even hurt a little. These are called lymph nodes. Swollen lymph nodes are common and are a good sign. The swelling in these lumps is one of your body’s reactions to illness or infection.
When your lymph nodes get swollen, it means your immune system is working to clear away infection and viruses or bacteria. These swollen lumps act like filters that help your body get rid of cells or foreign matter that passes through your lymph fluid and are located throughout your body in the jaw, arms, groin, abdomen, and legs.
The lymph nodes that swell up are the ones located closest to the area of the infection or illness. For example, the most common cause of swollen lymph nodes in the neck is an upper respiratory infection. Lymph nodes can swell up with pretty much any kind of infection, including dental issues.
Dental Issues That Can Swell Your Lymph Nodes
Tooth Infections
A tooth infection is a pocket of infection and pus that develops because of a bacterial infection in the mouth. They are most commonly formed because of untreated dental cavities, a traumatic injury to the teeth, or even a poorly performed dental procedure. One of the symptoms of these kinds of infections, other than swelling of the face and toothache, is swollen lymph nodes in the jaw or neck.
It is crucial to catch them quickly because, in some cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body. If the bacterial infection from an untreated tooth infection spreads to the neck, jaw, or brain, it can become life-threatening. The best way to prevent tooth infections is to practice good oral hygiene and be aware of the symptoms.
Canker Sore
A canker sore is an open mouth ulcer or sore, typically inside the lips or cheeks. They’re usually white or yellow and surrounded by inflamed soft tissue, and are really painful. Canker sore and swollen lymph nodes usually go hand in hand. Canker sores can have many causes like a virus or vitamin or mineral deficiency. Still, it’s always better to visit your dentist and let them examine it.
Get The Oral Health Assistance You Need
Dental problems are very delicate; they can lead to more significant issues within your body. If you notice anything unusual on your mouth, it’s better to visit a dentist as soon as possible, like canker sore and swollen lymph nodes. If you’re looking for a dentist in Knoxville, TN, look no further than Jim Erpenbach DDS.
Dr. Erpenbach is a founding member of the American Academy of Oral Systemic Health and an accredited member of the Academy of Biomimetic Dentistry. He is a compassionate dentist who thrives on giving his patients conservative care and high-quality service. If you want to receive unparalleled care from the best dentist in Knoxville, TN, contact the best today.
