A member asked:

Does an abscess on a dead tooth can mean a sign ofearly hiv infection?

5 doctors weighed in across 3 answers
Dr. Donald Alves answered

Specializes in Emergency Medicine

No = root canal: Either you need the tooth extracted or a root canal. See a dentist.

Answered 2/24/2013

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No: Abscess of a tooth is the insdes of the tooth draining out after the the tissue dies. They will frequently drain purulent material to either side of the affected tooth. They are an indicator that you have a dead tooth that needs either a root canal or extraction. Abscess of upper back teeth can lead to infection and death if left untreated.

Answered 3/26/2013

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No: People have abscesses all the time, the causes being decay, cracked teeth, periodontal problems etc. Being HIV positive in its own right, does not cause dental abscesses. It will alter your immune system and allow infection to manifest if you already have a chronic dental abscess.

Answered 6/10/2014

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How quickly can a tooth infection (abscess) spread?

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