The arrival of wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often brings confusion and discomfort. These teeth emerge in the late teens or early twenties. Distinguishing between normal eruption sensations and signs of infection can be challenging. This article clarifies the differences, helping individuals understand when symptoms are part of a natural process and when they indicate a need for professional dental care.
Normal Wisdom Tooth Eruption
Wisdom teeth emerging into the mouth can cause various sensations as they push through gum tissue. Many experience mild pain, pressure, or a dull ache in the back of the jaw. This discomfort is often intermittent. The gums around the erupting tooth may also appear tender, slightly swollen, or red.
Sometimes, a small white speck, the tip of the tooth, might become visible as it breaks through the gum line. Pain associated with normal eruption is temporary and resolves as the tooth continues to emerge. If there isn’t enough space in the jaw for the wisdom tooth to erupt properly, it might cause pressure against neighboring teeth, leading to increased discomfort or a sensation of crowding.
Signs of Infection
An infected wisdom tooth, often called pericoronitis, presents with symptoms more severe and persistent than those of normal eruption. Pericoronitis occurs when gum tissue around a partially emerged wisdom tooth becomes inflamed and infected, often due to trapped food particles and bacteria. Severe pain around the back teeth is a common sign, making it difficult to eat or open the mouth. This pain may also spread to the jaw, ear, or neck.
Swelling and redness of the gum tissue around the affected tooth are indicators of infection. Swelling can extend to the cheek and jaw, making it uncomfortable to open the mouth fully, a condition known as trismus or lockjaw. A bad taste or odor from the infected area, often with pus discharge, signals infection. Other systemic symptoms include fever and swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
When to See a Dentist
Seek professional dental evaluation whenever new or worsening wisdom tooth symptoms arise. If any signs of infection are present, such as severe or persistent pain, noticeable swelling, pus, or fever, a dental visit is necessary without delay. These symptoms suggest an infection that will not resolve on its own and requires professional intervention. Early detection and treatment prevent more serious complications.
During an examination, a dentist will visually inspect the area and may take X-rays to assess the wisdom tooth’s position and identify underlying issues, such as impaction. Treatment for an infected wisdom tooth may involve thoroughly cleaning the affected area to remove trapped debris and bacteria. Antibiotics may be prescribed to clear the infection. If the infection is recurrent or the tooth is impacted, extraction might be recommended to prevent problems.
Managing Discomfort and Prevention
For mild discomfort from normal wisdom tooth eruption, at-home measures provide temporary relief. Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and cleanse the area. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can also help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Applying a cold compress to the outside of the cheek near the affected area may help numb the pain and reduce swelling.
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is important during wisdom tooth eruption to prevent complications. Brushing twice daily and flossing can help reduce bacteria and prevent food from getting trapped around the erupting tooth. Regular dental check-ups allow dentists to monitor wisdom tooth development and identify potential problems early, sometimes even before symptoms appear.