Issues with wisdom teeth can result in a sore throat. While commonly linked to viral infections like colds or the flu, problems arising from wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, can also contribute. These teeth typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood, between the ages of 17 and 25. When they do not erupt properly, complications can arise that extend discomfort beyond the immediate tooth area.
The Link Between Wisdom Teeth and Sore Throats
A common reason wisdom teeth can cause a sore throat is a condition called pericoronitis. This occurs when a wisdom tooth only partially emerges from the gum, leaving a flap of gum tissue that can trap food particles, plaque, and bacteria. This trapped debris leads to inflammation and infection of the surrounding gum tissue, which can spread to the throat. The infection can cause radiating pain and swelling, making the throat feel sore.
Another mechanism is referred pain, where pain from one body part is felt in another. Because jaw nerves are interconnected with those supplying the throat, discomfort from an impacted or infected wisdom tooth can be perceived as throat pain. This is particularly common with lower wisdom teeth due to their proximity to these nerve pathways.
Swelling or muscle spasms near an affected wisdom tooth can put pressure on adjacent structures. Swelling from an infection can extend to the muscles and tissues in the jaw and neck, leading to stiffness and discomfort that mimics a sore throat. This pressure can also affect the ability to open the mouth fully, further contributing to throat pain.
Identifying Other Symptoms
A sore throat caused by wisdom teeth often appears alongside other symptoms. You might experience pain or tenderness in the jaw, particularly near the back of the mouth, or swelling of the gum or cheek on the affected side. The gums around the wisdom tooth may also appear red, swollen, or bleed easily.
Trismus, or difficulty opening the mouth completely, is another common sign. An unpleasant taste or persistent bad breath can also indicate an infection around the wisdom tooth due to bacterial accumulation. Headaches, earaches, or swollen lymph nodes in the neck may also occur as the body fights the infection.
When to See a Dentist
Seek dental evaluation if you suspect your sore throat is linked to wisdom teeth issues. A dentist can accurately diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment. Schedule an appointment if your sore throat persists or worsens, especially if accompanied by severe or radiating pain.
Immediate dental attention is necessary for difficulty swallowing or breathing, fever, chills, or rapidly increasing facial swelling. These symptoms can indicate a spreading infection that requires prompt intervention. Ignoring these signs can lead to more serious health complications.
Understanding Treatment Options
Once a dentist confirms wisdom teeth are causing your sore throat, several treatment options are available. For mild cases of pericoronitis, the dentist may clean and irrigate the affected area to remove trapped food and bacteria. This involves flushing the area with a saline solution or antiseptic rinse to reduce inflammation.
If a bacterial infection is present, especially with inflammation or fever, antibiotics like amoxicillin or clindamycin may be prescribed. These medications help reduce swelling and discomfort before further treatment. Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen, can help manage discomfort, while warm salt water rinses can offer temporary relief by reducing inflammation and cleansing the area.
For recurring issues, impaction, or significant infection, wisdom tooth extraction is often recommended. This surgical procedure involves removing the problematic tooth, often under local anesthesia. Extraction aims to eliminate the source of the infection and prevent future complications. Recovery typically involves managing swelling and discomfort for a few days to a week.