Why You Shouldn’t Ignore an Early Stage Wisdom Tooth Infection
As a writer, I’m well aware of the importance of taking care of one’s health. That’s why, in this article, I want to shed light on an often-overlooked topic among adults, especially those in their early twenties. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, usually start to emerge during this time frame. While sometimes pain-free, wisdom teeth can cause discomfort, inflammation, and bacterial infections that can spread throughout the body if left untreated. Therefore, it’s crucial to detect and address any abnormalities at their early stages. In this article, we’ll discuss why you shouldn’t ignore an early stage wisdom tooth infection and what you can do to prevent it.
Understanding Wisdom Teeth and their Emergence
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to emerge, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people don’t develop them at all, others may have four in total. Since wisdom teeth grow at the back of your jaw, they often don’t have enough space to come out correctly. This lack of room can cause them to grow crooked, push against nearby teeth, and lead to overcrowding. In some cases, wisdom teeth may not fully emerge and stay impacted, creating an even higher risk of infection.
Symptoms of an Early Stage Wisdom Tooth Infection
An early stage wisdom tooth infection, also known as pericoronitis, can arise when a partially emerged wisdom tooth creates a flap of gum tissue where food and bacteria can accumulate. If not removed through proper oral hygiene techniques, this may lead to inflammation and irritation in the surrounding area, resulting in infection. The symptoms of a wisdom tooth infection may include:
– Pain or discomfort around the back of the mouth
– Swollen, red, or bleeding gums
– Bad smell or taste in the mouth
– Difficulties opening the mouth.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore an Early Stage Wisdom Tooth Infection
Ignoring an early stage wisdom tooth infection may not only cause severe pain and discomfort but also lead to widespread health complications. Bacteria from infected wisdom teeth can travel to the bloodstream, causing infections in other parts of the body, including the heart and lungs. Additionally, wisdom teeth infections can also lead to abscesses, cysts, and other dental complications.
Prevention and Treatment
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to dental health. Maintaining proper oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist for routine cleanings, can help prevent wisdom tooth infections. Suppose you start experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above. In that case, it’s crucial to seek dental attention immediately to avoid potential health risks and prevent the infection from worsening. Treatments for early stage wisdom tooth infections may include antibiotics, pain relief medication, and even oral surgery.
Conclusion
An early stage wisdom tooth infection may seem like a minor health issue. However, its potential health risks can have severe consequences if ignored. Proper oral hygiene and seeking dental attention when experiencing any related symptoms is essential to maintaining good oral health and preventing further health complications. So, don’t forget to make regular dental check-ups a priority and take care of your wisdom teeth at all times.
