Wisdom Teeth Infection: What to Do?

Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. While they may erupt completely in some people without any problems, others may suffer from impacted wisdom teeth, particularly if they get infected. Wisdom tooth infections can be unpleasant and, if left untreated, may lead to more serious oral health problems.

It's critical to understand the cause, signs, and treatments of wisdom tooth infections in order to take preventative and timely action. This blog will walk you through the different aspects of infection in your wisdom teeth and the steps you need to take to manage it properly.

Why do Wisdom Teeth Often Cause Issues?

Wisdom teeth appear last through the gums, and because of this delayed emergence, there is frequently insufficient space for them to erupt into their correct positions. The teeth may become impacted, which means develop at an irregular angle or fail to fully erupt as a result of the space constraints.

Therefore, food particles and bacteria may multiply and become trapped around the gums, increasing the risk of infection. Furthermore, the pressure from wisdom teeth on surrounding teeth might result in misalignment and other issues. It is this mix of factors that makes wisdom teeth more prone to cause oral health difficulties than other teeth.

Importance of Addressing Wisdom Teeth Infections Promptly

An infection in the wisdom teeth can spread quickly, causing excruciating pain, swelling, and even trouble breathing or swallowing. Furthermore, infections have the potential to spread to other body parts, causing serious health hazards.

These risks can be avoided by:

• Promptly addressing the problem
• Taking early treatment to reduce the need for more intrusive operations

So, in order to prevent more catastrophic repercussions, it is imperative that you act right away if you suspect an infection in your wisdom teeth.

What Causes Wisdom Teeth Infection?

• Accumulation of Bacteria and Food Particles

It is not easy to reach the back of the mouth to clean properly. Wisdom teeth, particularly those that are impacted or partially erupted, leave gaps that can harbour bacteria and food particles.

Bacteria can easily get trapped in the pockets created by these particles when they get stuck there between the gums and the wisdom teeth. This accumulation of bacteria can result in infections, which frequently cause pain, swelling, and other unpleasant symptoms.

• Gum Inflammation and Infection

The gums around wisdom teeth that are partially erupted may become sensitive and swollen. This illness, called pericoronitis, is brought on by an infection of the tissue around a partially erupted wisdom tooth by bacteria.

It may become more difficult to maintain proper dental hygiene in the affected area if the gums become swollen, sore, and tender. This inflammation may become more serious and necessitate medical attention if treatment is not received.

Signs and Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Infection

• Swelling and Redness Around the Wisdom Teeth

The presence of visible swelling and redness in the gums around the impacted tooth is one of the most common signs of a wisdom tooth infection. The gums could feel sensitive to the touch and seem swollen or irritated. It may become difficult to open your mouth fully and cause significant discomfort if the swelling spreads to the cheeks and jaw.

• Pain and Tenderness in the Jaw and Gums

Pain is the first indicator that says something is wrong with your wisdom tooth. The pain can originate in the gums and spread to the jaw and ear. It can be intense and throbbing. You will feel uneasy to chew and swallow, which makes it challenging to eat or even speak comfortably.

• Bad Breath or an Unpleasant Taste in the Mouth

An unpleasant taste in the mouth or foul breath (halitosis) can result from bacteria building up around an infected wisdom tooth. This is the result of the bacterial infection generating toxins and aggravating the local oral hygiene problem.

• Fever and Difficulty Opening the Mouth

Fever and other systemic symptoms are possible outcomes of wisdom tooth infections in more severe situations. This happens when the body's immune system battles the infection. Trismus, or trouble opening the mouth, can also occur and make it difficult to speak, eat, or drink. In the event that these symptoms materialise, prompt dental care is necessary as this indicates that the infection may be spreading.

2 Immediate Steps to Take if You Suspect an Infection

1. See a Dentist Immediately for a Diagnosis

It's imperative that you get professional dental care as soon as possible if you think you may have an infection in your wisdom teeth. Magnum Clinic in Dubai has top dentists who can accurately diagnose the condition of your teeth, inspect your mouth, and take X-rays if needed. They will suggest the best course of action, which may include antibiotics or even extraction of the wisdom tooth, considering the severity of the illness.

2. Rinse with Warm Salt Water to Reduce Bacteria and Inflammation

Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water is an easy yet effective home cure for alleviating some of the symptoms of a wisdom tooth infection. Saltwater contains natural antibacterial capabilities, which can help lower the bacterial load in your mouth and alleviate discomfort. To make the rinse, mix half a teaspoon of salt and a glass of warm water. Swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.

Treatment Options for Wisdom Teeth Infection

The treatment of a wisdom tooth infection depends on the severity of the condition. In less severe situations, a dentist would advise good oral hygiene habits to stop the infection from returning as well as antibiotics to treat the illness. In more serious situations, it could be necessary to extract the wisdom teeth that are infected or drain the infection.

As impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth are more prone to get infected in the future, their extraction is advised. Recovery from tooth extraction usually entails maintaining oral cleanliness and post-operative painkillers

Prevention: How to Avoid Wisdom Teeth Infection

Keeping an eye on the growth of your wisdom teeth and practicing proper dental hygiene is important to prevent wisdom tooth infections. These are some essential preventive pieces of advice:

• Regular Dental Checkups: Frequent dental checkups will help identify any possible problems with your wisdom teeth before they develop an infection. Your dentist can assess if your wisdom teeth are impacted or likely to cause issues down the road with the use of X-rays.
• Maintaining Good Dental Hygiene: Thoroughly brushing and flossing can help stop the buildup of bacteria and food particles that cause infections, particularly at the rear of the mouth. A mouthwash with antibacterial properties might also aid in maintaining cleanliness.
• Consider Extraction: Your dentist can advise getting rid of your wisdom teeth if they are partially erupted or impacted before they cause issues. Early extraction lowers the chance of recurring infections and other issues.

Conclusion If left untreated, wisdom tooth infections can be extremely painful. To prevent complications from wisdom tooth infections and maintain optimal dental health, early intervention, and good oral hygiene are essential. See your dentist right away, and if you are looking for suggestions, Magnum Clinic in Dubai is undoubtedly the best. Get in touch right away +971 5433 63340 or visit https://www.magnumclinic.ae/