If not treated promptly, a tooth abscess can spread to adjacent areas causing swelling of the face and neck also known as cellulitis. If the swelling reaches the throat area, it will cause difficulty swallowing and even breathing which can be life-threatening.
There have been instances of patients dying from suffocation due to severe infection and swelling which started off as a simple tooth abscess. If you have difficulty swallowing or breathing, it is a LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY and you should call 911.