Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge, typically appearing in the late teenage years or early twenties. While some individuals experience no issues, they often present challenges due to limited space in the mouth. These teeth are particularly susceptible to infection, which can lead to significant discomfort and potentially serious health concerns if not addressed.
Recognizing Common Signs
An infected wisdom tooth often presents with noticeable symptoms. Pain is a frequent early indicator, localized around the tooth, radiating to the jaw or ear, and often feeling throbbing. The gums surrounding the affected tooth may become red, swollen, and tender. Swelling can extend beyond the immediate gum area to include the jaw or side of the face.
Difficulty opening the mouth (trismus) or pain when chewing are common signs. An unpleasant taste or persistent bad breath can signal an infection, often due to pus or bacterial accumulation. In some cases, a discharge of pus from the gum around the tooth may be visible. Systemic signs of infection, such as fever or general malaise, might also develop, indicating the body is fighting the infection. Additionally, lymph nodes in the neck can become swollen and sore as the body responds.
Reasons for Infection
Wisdom teeth are prone to infection primarily due to their position and development. One common reason is impaction, where insufficient space prevents proper eruption, trapping the tooth against other teeth or bone. This awkward positioning can prevent the tooth from fully emerging. When only part of the tooth emerges through the gum, a flap of gum tissue, called an operculum, can form over it.
This operculum can trap food particles, plaque, and bacteria, leading to inflammation and infection of the gum tissue around the partially erupted wisdom tooth, a condition known as pericoronitis. This condition is a common cause of wisdom tooth infections, as the trapped debris provides an ideal breeding ground for bacteria.
The location of wisdom teeth at the back of the mouth makes them challenging to clean effectively with regular brushing and flossing. This difficulty in maintaining oral hygiene contributes to plaque buildup and bacterial accumulation, increasing the risk of decay and infection.
What to Do Next
If you suspect an infected wisdom tooth, seeking professional dental care promptly is important. Untreated infections can spread to surrounding teeth, the jawbone, or even enter the bloodstream, potentially leading to severe complications like abscess formation or systemic issues. A dentist can accurately diagnose the issue through an examination and X-rays to assess the tooth’s position and the extent of any infection.
Treatment often involves antibiotics to clear the infection and a thorough cleaning of the affected area. Depending on the situation, the dentist might recommend removing the wisdom tooth to prevent future infections, especially if it is impacted or frequently problematic.
While waiting for a dental appointment, temporary measures can help manage discomfort. Rinsing with warm salt water can help reduce swelling and clean the area. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can alleviate pain and inflammation.