An estimated 85 percent of people will develop wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, in their lifetime. Unfortunately, wisdom teeth can be problematic and lead to infections when they don’t emerge properly or when they’re not taken care of properly. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about wisdom tooth infection, including symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
Symptoms of Wisdom Tooth Infection
A wisdom tooth infection can cause several symptoms, including:
1. Pain around the wisdom tooth or in the surrounding areas.
2. Swelling in the gums or face.
3. Tender or bleeding gums.
4. Difficulty opening your mouth.
5. Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
6. Fever or chills.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to visit your dentist or oral surgeon as soon as possible.
Causes of Wisdom Tooth Infection
Several factors can lead to a wisdom tooth infection, including:
1. Impacted wisdom teeth- When wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to emerge properly, they become impacted, causing pain, swelling, and even infection.
2. Cavities or decay- Decayed wisdom teeth can become infected, leading to severe pain and discomfort.
3. Gum disease- Gum disease can cause the gums to recede, exposing the roots of the teeth, which can lead to infections.
4. Trauma- Trauma to the mouth or face can cause an infection in the wisdom teeth.
Treatment Options for Wisdom Tooth Infection
The primary goal of treating a wisdom tooth infection is to get rid of the infection and relieve the pain and discomfort associated with it. Treatment options include:
1. Antibiotics- Antibiotics are prescribed to control the infection.
2. Drainage- In severe cases, your dentist may need to drain the infection.
3. Surgery- If the wisdom tooth is severely impacted or infected, surgery may be required to remove the tooth entirely.
Preventing Wisdom Tooth Infection
Prevention is always better than cure. Taking care of your oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly can help prevent wisdom tooth infections. If your dentist recommends extraction of your wisdom teeth, it is crucial to have them removed before they cause any severe problems.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wisdom teeth infections can cause severe pain and discomfort, and if left untreated, it can lead to serious consequences. It is important to be aware of the symptoms and causes of wisdom tooth infections and seek treatment from your dentist immediately. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular visits to your dentist can help prevent wisdom teeth infections. Don’t let wisdom teeth infections affect your quality of life. Get treatment and keep smiling!
