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Signs of Wisdom Tooth Infection

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the final molars to erupt in a person’s mouth. Some people have no issues, but others may develop wisdom teeth infections or other concerns. These infections can be painful and should be treated quickly to avoid future consequences. This article will discuss wisdom teeth infection symptoms, their causes, and how to get treatment.

What Causes Infection in the Wisdom Teeth?

The position of the wisdom teeth is the primary cause of infection. They are challenging to clean since they are far back in the jaw. This allows for a significantly higher concentration of bacteria, which can eventually cause an infection. 

  • Some people’s jaws are too small to accommodate wisdom teeth, which increases their risk of infection. Therefore, as these teeth erupt in maturity, they might become impacted or stuck in the jawbone or beneath the gums. An infection of the gums is more likely to develop around impacted wisdom teeth that don’t fully erupt. 
  • It’s not uncommon for people’s wisdom teeth to come in at awkward angles. Plaque and bacteria can become lodged if they are too close to the molars and challenging to clear. Furthermore, they can cause damage to adjacent teeth, which raises the risk of bacterial infection. 
  • Recognizing a tooth infection and seeking treatment is crucial because of the potential severity of the illness and its effects on the diseased tooth and the rest of the body. To help you get to the dentist promptly, we’ll review some more apparent signs of a wisdom tooth infection below. 
  • Pericoronitis, or infection of the tissues around a partially erupted or impacted wisdom teeth, develops when bacteria enter these tissues. When a tooth doesn’t have enough room to emerge ultimately, food particles, plaque, and debris might become trapped and cause infection. Wisdom tooth infection symptoms range from minor discomfort to excruciating pain.

Typical Indicators:

  • Localized pain and swelling can be the result of a wisdom tooth infection. Jaw, ear, and throat discomfort is possible.
  • Inflammation and redness: an immunological reaction to the infection may cause the affected region to seem red and swollen.
  • Those experiencing pain and edema may find it difficult to open their mouths completely.
  • A foul taste in the mouth and chronic poor breath despite good dental care can be signs of an illness.
  • Sometimes an infection can cause your jaw to become tight, making it hard to open and close your mouth.
  • Low-grade fever and general malaise: severe illnesses can cause these symptoms.

Wisdom’s Roots Infected Teeth:

Several different things can cause wisdom tooth infections:

  • Failure of a wisdom tooth to erupt normally might provide a gap through which bacteria can enter, leading to illness.
  • Inadequate oral hygiene can result in plaque and bacteria buildup, increasing the risk of infection.
  • A bacterial infection can be started by any trauma or injury to the area around the wisdom teeth.

Care and Preventative Measures:

  • Nonprescription drugs for discomfort: Pain and inflammation can be treated using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen.
  • Your dentist may recommend antibiotics to treat a bacterial infection if the condition is severe.
  • Rinsing the mouth gently with warm saline water will alleviate swelling and loosen debris.
  • The dentist may suggest removing the wisdom teeth if the infection is chronic or severe. Under local or general anesthesia, this surgery entails the extraction of the diseased tooth.
  • Wisdom tooth infections can be avoided with regular brushing, flossing, and antibiotic mouthwash. Also, frequent dental checkups can help spot developing issues early on, allowing for more effective treatment.

Wrapping Up

Wisdom teeth infection is common, and knowing the warning signs is essential so you can get treatment right once. You should see a dentist immediately if you have any symptoms related to your wisdom teeth: chronic pain, swelling, or other discomfort. Infections can be contained and their repercussions avoided if treatment is sought quickly. You may protect your teeth and gums from infections in your wisdom teeth by maintaining a regular schedule of dental checkups and cleanings.