A tooth infection, or an abscessed tooth, generally occurs as a result of tooth decay and poor oral hygiene. However, it can also develop due to previous dental work or traumatic injury.  When an infection occurs, it causes a pocket of pus to form in the mouth as a result of an overgrowth of bacteria. This infection often causes swelling, pain, and sensitivity in the area. Without treatment, the infection may spread to other areas of the jaw or even the brain. Dental decay and cavities are very common. As one article notes, up to 91% of adult’s ages 20–64 have cavities. Also, around 27% of people in the same age group have untreated tooth decay. Treating tooth decay early is important to prevent complications such as tooth infections. New research shows that the body's own microbes are effective in maintaining immune cells and killing certain oral infections. A team of Case Western Reserve University researchers found that antibiotics actually kill the "good" bacteria keeping infection and inflammation at bay. Scientists have long known that overuse of antibiotics can do more harm than good. For example, overuse can cause antibiotic resistance. But research into this phenomenon in oral health was uncharted territory. Many investigations has taken place to study the "resident" bacteria, their fatty acids and their effect on certain types of white blood cells that combat infections in the mouth. Specifically, researchers looked at the "short-term maintenance" of Tregs and Th-17 cells in fighting fungal infections, such as Candida, in a laboratory setting. They found that those natural defences were very effective in reducing infection and unwanted inflammation -- and antibiotics can prevent such natural defences. Their work was recently published in Frontiers in Microbiology. Antibiotics can kill short-chain fatty acids produced by body's own good bacteria". "We have good bacteria doing good work every day, why kill them? As is the case with many infections, if you leave them alone, they will leave on their own. "Of course, antibiotics are still needed for life threatening infections. No question about that. Our bodies have many natural defences that we shouldn't meddle with," she said. However, needless overuse of antibiotics is not helpful, she said. "Also, we know there is a definite link between oral health and overall health," The study could have broader implications on protective effects of "resident micro biota" in other types of infections.

Regards
Sarah eve
Editorial Assistant
Journal of Oral Hygiene and Health