Hair Loss Linked to Tooth Infections

If you are one on the millions of individuals suffering from hair loss you may be too focused on your hair-thinning problem to even think about the other aspects of your health. However, numerous scientific studies have shown a correlation between general health and hair loss. And, newer studies are beginning to uncover a link between patchy hair loss and tooth infections.

Hair Loss and Tooth Infection

Alopecia, a hair loss disease that affects both men and women, is characterized by the development of bald patches on the scalp. Although the exact cause of this disease is yet unknown, researchers think that problems with the body's immune system, like infection, can lead to its development. When an infection occurs in the body the production of white blood cells is increased in order to help fight the infection. Medical scientists believe that alopecia occurs when the white blood cells mistakenly attack the hair follicles, weakening them to the point where hair growth can no longer occur.

Following the link between white blood cells, infection, and alopecia, scientists are now studying the effects of tooth infection, and the increase in white blood cells, to sudden hair loss. When a tooth becomes infected white blood cell counts increase in the infected area. While most of these cells continue to attack and destroy the infection, some are thought to migrate to nearby cells, such as those found in hair follicles. When this migration happens cell damage occurs in the area and hair growth is halted. Alopecia associated with tooth infection is often detected close to the area of infection. For example, if an upper molar is infected then sudden hair loss might be noticeable along the temple hairline on the same side as the infected tooth. This is not always the case, however. Hair loss caused by tooth infections can also be seen in the beard, upper lip, eyebrow, or neck areas, and is also attributed to hair loss development on the crown or lower portions of the scalp.

Help Your Hair Loss by Scheduling an Appointment with a Dentist

The good news about infection-induced alopecia is that it can usually be treated and reversed. Many dentists are now being trained to look for patchy, sudden hair loss in patients experiencing tooth infections. And, if the symptoms are caught in early development both the infection and hair loss can be easily treated. In many cases, once the infection has been cured or the infected tooth has been removed, the hair follicles can begin to heal. It is important to remember, however, that healing takes time, and complete hair regrowth may not be seen for at least six months.

The best thing to do if you notice sudden, patchy hair loss, even if you are not experiencing any tooth pain or problems, is to make an appointment with a dentist. If you address the infection early the chances of eliminating the hair loss permanently are better. However, if you wait, the white blood cells may cause too much damage to the affected hair follicles and the hair loss could be permanent.