Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars to emerge, typically appearing in the late teens or early twenties. Salivary glands produce saliva, essential for oral health and digestion. The three major pairs are the parotid (near ears), submandibular (under jaw), and sublingual (under tongue) glands. Saliva keeps the mouth moist, aids swallowing, and protects teeth.
How Wisdom Teeth Can Cause Swelling
Wisdom teeth can contribute to swollen salivary glands primarily through infection and inflammation. This often occurs when a wisdom tooth is impacted, meaning it lacks sufficient space to fully erupt or grows at an angle.
One common issue is pericoronitis, an inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding a partially erupted wisdom tooth. When a wisdom tooth is only partially visible, a gum flap (operculum) can cover part of it, trapping food and bacteria. This leads to infection and inflammation of the surrounding gum tissue. Symptoms of pericoronitis include pain, redness, swelling of the gums, and sometimes pus or drainage.
The infection associated with pericoronitis can spread from the localized area around the wisdom tooth to nearby tissues. Due to the close proximity of the submandibular and parotid glands, this infection can extend to them, causing swelling. Facial swelling, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, and difficulty swallowing can occur if the infection progresses. Rarely, impacted wisdom teeth can also lead to cysts or benign tumors. These growths, though uncommon, can pressure adjacent salivary glands, causing swelling.
Other Causes of Salivary Gland Swelling
While wisdom teeth can be a factor, various other conditions can also lead to swollen salivary glands. Infections, known as sialadenitis, are a common cause. These can be bacterial, often resulting from blocked ducts or poor oral hygiene, and cause one-sided swelling, pain, and fever. Viruses, such as mumps, influenza, or Epstein-Barr virus, can also cause salivary gland swelling, particularly affecting the parotid glands, sometimes on both sides.
Salivary stones (sialolithiasis) are another common cause of swelling. These are small, calcified deposits that can form within the salivary ducts and obstruct the flow of saliva. When saliva cannot exit the duct, it backs up into the gland, leading to pain and swelling, which may worsen during eating. If left untreated, a blocked duct can also become infected.
Certain systemic conditions, including autoimmune diseases, can cause salivary gland swelling. Sjögren’s syndrome is a chronic autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks moisture-producing glands, often leading to chronic, usually painless, swelling of the salivary glands. Benign or malignant tumors can also develop within the salivary glands, presenting as swellings that may or may not be painful. These growths can vary in firmness and mobility.
When to Seek Professional Advice
Seek professional medical or dental advice if you experience persistent salivary gland swelling, especially if wisdom teeth issues are suspected. Symptoms that warrant a visit include swelling that does not subside within a week, increasing pain, difficulty opening the mouth, fever, chills, or any discharge of pus. Difficulty swallowing or breathing are more severe symptoms requiring immediate attention.
Only a healthcare professional can accurately diagnose the underlying cause of swollen salivary glands. Diagnosis involves a clinical examination and may include imaging tests, such as X-rays, to identify issues like impacted wisdom teeth, stones, or tumors. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment approaches vary. Bacterial infections are often managed with antibiotics, while impacted wisdom teeth or salivary stones might require removal.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is a proactive step that can help prevent some wisdom tooth-related complications, such as pericoronitis. Regular brushing and flossing can reduce bacterial accumulation around partially erupted teeth. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, professional evaluation is crucial for appropriate treatment and to prevent potential complications.