Tooth infections have the potential to spread and enter the bloodstream and become life-threatening. This can make patients very sick, feverish and nauseous. If you suspect that you have an infected tooth and have noticed swelling of your face, neck or lymph nodes or have been feeling unwell, it is important to seek emergency dental care as soon as possible. If you cannot reach your emergency dentist, you should proceed to the emergency room or walk-in clinic. The doctors at these clinics cannot perform dental procedures to eliminate your infection, but they can prescribe antibiotics to control the spread of infection until you can receive dental treatment.