Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge in the back of the mouth between the ages of 17 and 25. Not every individual develops wisdom teeth, and not all of them cause problems. Their late arrival often coincides with a lack of sufficient space in the jaw, making them particularly prone to various dental issues. Infection is a common complication, arising when bacteria become trapped around these teeth. Recognizing the early signs of a wisdom tooth infection is important for timely intervention and preventing more serious health concerns.
Recognizing Key Symptoms
Pain serves as a primary indicator of a wisdom tooth infection, often presenting as a persistent ache or throbbing sensation in the back of the mouth. This discomfort can extend to the jaw, ear, or neck, and may intensify when chewing or speaking. Unlike the mild discomfort associated with normal tooth eruption, pain from an infection is continuous and tends to worsen over time.
Swelling and redness around the affected tooth are common signs. The gum tissue surrounding the wisdom tooth may appear inflamed and swollen, feeling tender to the touch. This swelling can sometimes spread to the jaw and cheeks, making the area visibly puffed. Pus discharge, appearing as a white or yellowish fluid, can emerge from the gum, indicating an active infection.
An unpleasant taste or persistent bad breath (halitosis) often accompanies a wisdom tooth infection. This occurs due to the accumulation of bacteria and pus in the infected area. Difficulty opening the mouth fully (trismus) can develop due to jaw stiffness caused by the inflammation.
Systemic symptoms can signal a more widespread infection. Swollen and tender lymph nodes beneath the jaw or in the neck indicate the body’s immune response. A fever, a rise in body temperature, may also develop, suggesting the infection is impacting overall health.
Understanding the Underlying Causes
Wisdom teeth are particularly susceptible to infection due to their position and eruption patterns. When a wisdom tooth does not fully emerge or grows at an angle, it is referred to as impaction. This lack of proper eruption can create spaces where food particles and bacteria become easily trapped.
A common condition associated with partially erupted wisdom teeth is pericoronitis, which is the inflammation and infection of the gum tissue surrounding the tooth. A flap of gum tissue (operculum) can cover a partially erupted tooth, forming a pocket that harbors debris and bacteria. This creates an ideal environment for bacterial growth, leading to infection.
The location of wisdom teeth at the very back of the mouth makes them challenging to clean effectively. Brushing and flossing in this area can be difficult, allowing plaque and tartar to accumulate. This accumulation provides a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of decay and infection in the wisdom tooth and surrounding gums.
When to Seek Urgent Care
Certain symptoms indicate a severe wisdom tooth infection that requires immediate professional attention. Severe, unmanageable pain that does not subside with over-the-counter pain relievers is a significant warning sign. Such intense pain can radiate widely and signal a worsening condition.
Swelling that spreads beyond the immediate tooth area to the face, neck, or under the chin is a serious concern. This can indicate the infection is spreading rapidly, potentially leading to more widespread issues.
Difficulty swallowing or breathing, along with voice changes, are critical symptoms that suggest the infection might be impacting the airway or deeper tissues, necessitating emergency medical care. A high fever, typically over 100.4°F (38°C), combined with other symptoms of infection, points to a systemic response needing prompt evaluation. Any rapid worsening of existing symptoms or the sudden appearance of new, severe signs should prompt an urgent dental or medical visit. These indicators suggest the infection could be progressing to a more dangerous stage, such as an abscess or systemic infection like sepsis, requiring immediate intervention.
Diagnosis and Initial Steps
Upon suspecting a wisdom tooth infection, a dental professional will conduct a thorough examination to diagnose the issue. This typically involves a visual inspection of the affected area, where the dentist will look for signs such as redness, swelling, and the presence of pus.
The dentist will also check for swollen lymph nodes and assess jaw movement. X-rays are an essential diagnostic tool. These images provide a detailed view of the wisdom tooth’s position, revealing if it is impacted or if there is any damage to surrounding teeth or bone. X-rays also help determine the extent of any infection that may be present beneath the gum line.
Antibiotics are frequently prescribed to control the infection and prevent bacteria from spreading. This is often a crucial first step before any further dental procedures. Pain management is also addressed, with recommendations for over-the-counter pain relievers or, if necessary, prescription medication. If an abscess (a pocket of pus) has formed, the dentist may need to drain it to relieve pressure and facilitate healing. Once the acute infection is managed and controlled, the dental professional will discuss long-term solutions, often including wisdom tooth extraction to prevent future recurrences and complications.