Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to emerge, typically appearing in the late teenage years or early twenties. While some individuals experience their eruption without issue, these teeth can sometimes lead to various complications.
How Wisdom Teeth Can Lead to Fever
A fever related to wisdom teeth usually signals an underlying infection. The most common cause is pericoronitis, an inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding a partially erupted wisdom tooth. When a wisdom tooth only partially breaks through the gum, it can create a flap of tissue that traps food particles and bacteria. This warm, moist environment allows bacteria to multiply, leading to an infection. The body’s immune system responds to this infection by initiating an inflammatory response, which can result in a fever. Fever helps fight off invading bacteria. If the infection progresses, it can lead to more severe conditions like an abscess, a localized collection of pus, or, less commonly, a cyst. These can also contribute to systemic symptoms such as fever, as bacteria may enter the bloodstream, causing a widespread immune response.
Other Signs of Wisdom Tooth Complications
Beyond fever, other symptoms can indicate wisdom tooth complications. Pain is frequent, often localized to the back of the mouth but capable of radiating to the jaw, ear, or head. Swelling around the gum, jaw, or face is common, making the affected area tender. This swelling can make it difficult to open the mouth fully (trismus) or cause discomfort when chewing.
An unpleasant taste or persistent bad breath can occur due to bacterial buildup and pus discharge. Redness around the affected gum tissue is another visual cue of inflammation or infection. Swollen lymph nodes under the jaw or in the neck may indicate the body is actively fighting an infection.
When to Seek Dental Attention
If you experience a fever or any of the other symptoms discussed, especially if they are severe or persistent, it is important to seek dental evaluation. Prompt attention prevents the infection from worsening and spreading. A dentist will perform an examination and may take X-rays to assess the wisdom tooth’s position and diagnose the issue.
Treatment for wisdom tooth complications varies depending on the diagnosis. For infections, antibiotics may be prescribed to control bacterial spread. The dentist might also clean the infected area to remove trapped debris. In many cases, especially with recurrent infections or impacted teeth, extraction of the wisdom tooth may be recommended to prevent future problems and maintain oral health. Timely addressing these issues prevents more serious health complications.