Wisdom teeth are the last set of teeth to emerge, typically between the ages of 17 and 25. A dental abscess is a localized pocket of pus that forms due to a bacterial infection within the bone or gum tissue surrounding a tooth. Wisdom teeth are a common source of infection in the mouth and can lead to an abscess. This often occurs when the tooth cannot fully erupt, creating conditions that trap bacteria and debris.
How Wisdom Teeth Create Conditions for Infection
Wisdom teeth often lack sufficient space in the jaw to emerge properly, a condition termed impaction. When a tooth is impacted, it may push against the neighboring molar or remain trapped beneath the gum line. Partial eruption, where the tooth breaks through the gum only slightly, is a common scenario.
This partial eruption creates a flap of gum tissue, known as an operculum, covering part of the tooth’s crown. The space beneath this gum flap is nearly impossible to clean effectively. Food particles, plaque, and bacteria accumulate in this pocket, creating an ideal breeding ground for infection.
The resulting inflammation of the gum tissue around the partially erupted tooth is called pericoronitis. If left untreated, this initial infection can progress rapidly. The accumulation of dead white blood cells, tissue debris, and bacteria forms pus, leading directly to a localized dental abscess. The infection may also spread into the supporting bone structure around the tooth root.
Recognizing the Signs of a Dental Abscess
The primary sign of a developing abscess is localized, persistent, and throbbing pain near the back of the jaw. This discomfort may radiate toward the ear, neck, or head and typically worsens when chewing or applying pressure. Swelling is another common indicator, frequently appearing on the cheek, jaw, or lymph nodes on the affected side.
If the infection progresses, a fever may develop as the body responds to the spreading bacteria. The nearby gum tissue often appears red and tender, and pus drainage can cause a foul taste or bad breath. Severe swelling can restrict jaw movement, leading to difficulty opening the mouth (trismus). Difficulty swallowing may also occur.
Necessary Treatment and Relief Options
Temporary Relief
A dental abscess is a serious infection that necessitates immediate professional dental attention, as bacteria can spread to other areas of the head and neck. While waiting for an urgent appointment, temporary relief can be achieved by rinsing the mouth with warm salt water several times a day. Dissolving half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water can help draw pus to the surface and soothe the inflamed tissue. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can also help manage pain and reduce localized swelling.
Professional Treatment
These at-home measures only address symptoms and will not cure the underlying bacterial infection. Professional treatment typically begins with two immediate goals: draining the pus and controlling the infection. A dentist or oral surgeon performs an incision and drainage procedure, making a small cut into the swollen area to allow the pus to escape, which significantly relieves pressure and pain. Following drainage, a course of antibiotics is prescribed to eliminate remaining infection and prevent its spread.
Addressing the Cause
The final, and most definitive, step is addressing the underlying cause, which is usually the problematic wisdom tooth. Once the acute infection is under control, the oral surgeon will recommend extraction of the impacted or partially erupted molar. Removing the tooth eliminates the anatomical structure that allowed the bacteria to accumulate, preventing the abscess from recurring.