Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of adult teeth to emerge, typically between ages 17 and 25. While they often erupt without issue, their late arrival can sometimes lead to complications. A foul odor from a wisdom tooth often signals an underlying dental issue.
Why Your Wisdom Tooth Might Smell Bad
A primary reason for a foul smell around a wisdom tooth is pericoronitis, an inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding a partially erupted tooth. When a wisdom tooth only partially emerges, a flap of gum tissue, called an operculum, can form over it. This flap creates a sheltered space where food particles, bacteria, and other debris can easily become trapped. As bacteria multiply and break down the trapped matter, they release volatile sulfur compounds, which are responsible for the unpleasant odor.
Food and debris accumulation also contribute. Wisdom teeth, located at the back of the mouth, are difficult to clean. Food particles can lodge in crevices, decomposing and creating a breeding ground for bacteria that produce foul smells and bad breath.
Tooth decay, or cavities, on the wisdom tooth can also cause a foul smell. Cavities collect bacteria and decaying food, leading to a rotting odor. Progressive decay can result in an infection within the tooth.
Gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis, can also cause odor around wisdom teeth. Plaque and tartar buildup lead to inflamed, red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Bacterial activity from gum disease releases byproducts causing bad breath and an unpleasant taste.
Severe bacterial infections, like an abscess, can develop around a wisdom tooth, causing a strong, unpleasant smell. An abscess is a localized pus collection that, if ruptured, releases foul-smelling fluid. These infections often cause significant pain and swelling.
Other Signs to Watch For
Beyond odor, other signs indicate a wisdom tooth problem. Pain or tenderness in the jaw, gum, or radiating to the ear is common, ranging from a dull ache to throbbing pain, especially when chewing. Swelling of the gum tissue around the tooth, or extending to the cheek or jaw, often accompanies infection.
Difficulty opening the mouth, known as trismus, signals inflammation or infection. Swelling and muscle spasms restrict jaw movement. A persistent bad taste, often metallic or pus-like, frequently accompanies the foul smell, especially if pus drains from an infected area.
Redness or inflammation of the gum tissue around the wisdom tooth indicates irritation and infection. Pus drainage, a yellowish discharge, signals an active bacterial infection. In advanced cases, systemic signs like fever or a general feeling of unwellness may appear. Swollen lymph nodes under the chin or in the neck can also indicate a spreading infection.
When to See a Dentist
Seek professional evaluation if a bad smell around your wisdom tooth persists despite regular cleaning. A dental visit is also warranted for significant or worsening pain or discomfort.
Prompt attention is needed for difficulty chewing, swallowing, or limited mouth opening. Fever or chills alongside dental symptoms suggest a spreading infection. Persistent or heavy gum bleeding around the wisdom tooth also requires consultation.
Treatments and Prevention Strategies
Professional intervention for a problematic wisdom tooth often begins with thorough cleaning and irrigation to flush out trapped food, bacteria, and debris. Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections. For recurrent pericoronitis, an operculectomy, a minor surgical procedure, may remove the problematic gum flap.
Wisdom tooth extraction is a common and often definitive solution, particularly for impacted or recurrently infected wisdom teeth. Removing the tooth eliminates the space where food and bacteria can become trapped, preventing future infections and associated odors. If the bad smell is primarily due to tooth decay, the dentist may perform a cavity filling or, in more severe cases, a root canal to address the infection within the tooth.
Home care practices can help prevent or manage wisdom tooth issues. Diligent oral hygiene, including thorough brushing around wisdom teeth and regular flossing, removes food and plaque. Antiseptic mouthwashes reduce bacteria and provide temporary odor relief. Warm saltwater rinses soothe inflamed gums and clean the area. Regular dental check-ups monitor wisdom teeth and address problems early.