Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the final set of teeth to come in, typically erupting between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people experience no issues with their wisdom teeth, others may suffer from various complications, including infections.
Timely identifying the symptoms of wisdom teeth infection is crucial for preventing further damage to your gums and surrounding tissues. This article delves into these aspects and answers frequently asked questions about managing and preventing wisdom teeth infections.
Wisdom Teeth Infection Symptoms
Recognising the symptoms of a wisdom teeth infection is crucial for seeking timely treatment. Here are the most common signs and symptoms to be aware of:
Pain and Swelling:
One of the most noticeable symptoms is intense pain and swelling around the affected wisdom tooth. The infection of wisdom teeth can cause jaw pain, and ear pain and even spread to your throat making it difficult to chew and speak.
Redness and Tenderness:
The gums around an infected wisdom tooth often become red, inflamed, and tender to the touch. This inflammation can extend to the surrounding areas of the mouth.
Bad Breath and Unpleasant Taste:
Persistent bad breath (halitosis) and a foul taste in the mouth can indicate an infection. This is often due to the presence of pus or bacterial accumulation.
Difficulty Opening the Mouth:
Swelling and pain can limit the ability to open the mouth fully, a condition known as trismus. This can make eating, speaking, and maintaining oral hygiene challenging.
Fever and General Malaise:
A fever and a general feeling of being unwell can accompany a wisdom teeth infection, signalling that the infection may be spreading.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek dental care immediately to prevent the infection from worsening.
Causes of Infection
There are several factors that can directly contribute to the wisdom teeth infection in adults. Recognising these causes can help you take effective preventive measures:
Impacted Wisdom Teeth:
When a wisdom tooth fails to fully emerge through the gums, it becomes impacted. This impaction contributes to creating pockets or gaps where bacteria can accumulate resulting in infection.
Pericoronitis:
This condition involves inflammation of the soft tissue surrounding a partially erupted tooth. Food particles and bacteria can easily get trapped in these areas, causing infections.
Poor Oral Hygiene:
Avoiding timely brushing and flossing can result in the buildup of food particles surrounding your wisdom teeth area. This creates an environment where bacteria can thrive, contributing to the development of a wisdom teeth infection.
Cysts and Tumours:
Cysts or tumours can form around impacted wisdom teeth, leading to infections and other complications.
Trauma:
Any injury to the area around the wisdom teeth can make it more susceptible to infection, especially if the wound is not properly cleaned.
By understanding these causes, individuals can take steps to maintain good oral hygiene and seek regular dental check-ups to prevent infections.
Medication & Treatment Options for Wisdom Teeth Infection
Treatment for a wisdom teeth infection typically involves a combination of medication and dental procedures. Here are some common treatment options:
Antibiotics:
Dentists commonly prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection from spreading. It is vital to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication.
Pain Relievers:
Pain relievers like paracetamol, ibuprofen or acetaminophen can effectively manage wisdom teeth pain and reduce inflammation of the infection. For more severe discomfort, dentists may prescribe stronger pain medications.
Saltwater Rinses:
Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can help reduce bacteria and soothe inflamed gums. This simple home remedy can be effective in alleviating discomfort.
Drainage of Infection:
If the pain persists for a longer time, the dentist may need to drain the infection to remove the pus surrounding the infection area and alleviate pressure. This is typically achieved through a minor surgical procedure.
Wisdom Teeth Extraction:
If the infection is recurrent or the wisdom tooth is severely impacted, the dentist may recommend extraction. This procedure involves removing the problematic tooth to eliminate the source of infection.
It is essential to follow the dentist’s instructions carefully to ensure a full recovery and prevent further complications.
FAQs
How long does a wisdom teeth infection last?
The duration of a wisdom teeth infection can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the effectiveness of the treatment. With proper care and medication, mild infections may resolve within a week. However, more severe infections may take longer to heal and could require additional treatment, such as drainage or extraction. It is important to follow the prescribed treatment plan and attend follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process.
How to avoid infection after wisdom teeth removal?
Preventing infection after wisdom teeth removal involves diligent care and adherence to post-operative instructions. Here are some tips:
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene:
Brush and floss regularly, but be gentle around the surgical site to avoid disrupting the healing process.
Follow Post-Operative Instructions:
Adhere to your dentist’s or oral surgeon’s instructions, including taking prescribed medications and using any recommended oral rinses.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol:
Smoking and alcohol can delay the healing process and may increase the risk of infection. It is advisable to refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol until the surgical site has fully healed.
Stick to Soft Foods:
Consume soft foods such as yoghurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies to avoid irritating the extraction site. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods at all costs as these might dislodge the blood clots.
Rinse Gently:
Use a saltwater rinse to keep the area clean, but avoid vigorous rinsing that can dislodge the blood clot and hinder healing.
How to treat infection after wisdom teeth removal?
If an infection develops after wisdom teeth removal, treatment may include:
Antibiotics:
Your dentist will prescribe antibiotics/medications to eliminate any possible infection. It is crucial to take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed to ensure the infection is fully eradicated.
Pain Management:
Use prescribed pain relievers to control discomfort. Over-the-counter options such as ibuprofen can also help reduce inflammation and pain.
Follow-Up Visits:
Attend follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and address any complications. Your dentist may need to drain the infection or perform additional procedures if necessary.
How common are infections after wisdom teeth removal?
Infections after wisdom teeth removal are relatively uncommon, occurring in a small percentage of cases. Proper post-operative care and following the dentist’s instructions significantly reduce the risk of infection. If you have concerns about the procedure or your risk of infection, discuss them with your dentist or oral surgeon. They can provide personalised advice and reassurance based on your specific situation.
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Don’t Hesitate to Seek Professional Care
In conclusion, wisdom teeth infections can be painful and disruptive, but with prompt and appropriate treatment, recovery is possible. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options is essential for managing and preventing these infections. If you suspect a wisdom teeth infection, don’t hesitate to seek professional care. At Dentists at Surrey Hills, our experienced team is dedicated to providing comprehensive dental care to ensure your oral health and comfort. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for wisdom teeth treatment in Surrey Hills.
