A wisdom tooth infection often begins when the third molars, or wisdom teeth, only partially break through the gums. This partial eruption, frequently caused by impaction, leaves a flap of gum tissue covering part of the tooth surface. This tissue creates a sheltered space where food particles, plaque, and bacteria become trapped, leading to a localized infection known as pericoronitis. Since the area is difficult to clean, the bacterial colony thrives, causing inflammation and discomfort.
Identifying the Specific Pain and Discomfort
The most immediate sensation associated with a localized wisdom tooth infection is a persistent, throbbing ache at the back of the jaw. The discomfort is centered on the affected molar and surrounding gum tissue, which becomes noticeably red, swollen, and tender to the touch. This pain is often more intense than the mild pressure accompanying a tooth simply erupting.
The localized inflammation can quickly create difficulty performing basic mouth movements, such as chewing or biting down. Swelling in the soft tissue can push against the opposing tooth, making it painful to close the mouth completely. The pain may radiate outward, extending into the ear, the jawbone, or the side of the head.
As the infection progresses, the bacterial activity and the body’s inflammatory response produce pus, a thick, whitish or yellowish fluid. This discharge creates a distinctly foul taste in the mouth that is difficult to eliminate, often described as metallic or unpleasant. The presence of pus and volatile sulfur compounds also contribute to chronic bad breath (halitosis). The gum flap itself may feel spongy or engorged, and touching the area can produce a sharp jolt of pain.
Recognizing Systemic Signs of Infection
While the initial symptoms are localized to the mouth, the infection can spread, leading to systemic signs. The clearest indicator that the infection is spreading is the development of a fever, sometimes accompanied by chills. A fever signals that the body’s immune system is fighting a widespread bacterial challenge.
Facial swelling may become visible on the cheek corresponding to the infected side, extending from the jawline. Swollen lymph nodes under the jaw and in the neck are a common systemic response. These glands work to filter and contain the bacteria, and the nodes will often feel firm and tender when pressed.
A spreading infection can affect the muscles and joints of the jaw, leading to a condition called trismus. Trismus is characterized by painful spasms that restrict the ability to open the mouth fully, making it challenging to eat or speak. If swelling moves into the throat area, it can cause dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), which is a serious sign of an infection progressing toward the airway.
Immediate Steps and Professional Treatment
If a wisdom tooth infection is suspected, immediate action should focus on temporary symptom relief while arranging professional care. A gentle rinse with warm salt water can soothe the inflamed gum tissue and flush out trapped food debris and bacteria. Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, help manage both the pain and localized swelling.
Home remedies only provide temporary comfort and do not treat the underlying bacterial infection. Definitive treatment requires a dental professional, who will first assess the severity of the infection, often using X-rays to check the tooth’s position. If the infection is contained, the dentist may perform irrigation, using specialized tools to clean the area under the gum flap and remove trapped debris.
If systemic symptoms like fever or severe facial swelling are present, the dentist will prescribe a course of antibiotics to eliminate the infection before any surgical procedure. Once the acute infection is managed, the long-term solution involves removing the problematic wisdom tooth. Extraction prevents recurrence, especially if the tooth is impacted or partially erupted, as these conditions are the root cause of the bacterial trapping. In some cases, a minor procedure to remove only the overlying gum flap, called an operculectomy, may be performed if the tooth is expected to fully erupt later.