Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth that typically emerge in your late teens or early twenties. For many people, these teeth can cause problems, including infections. A wisdom tooth infection occurs when bacteria invade the tissue surrounding a partially erupted or impacted wisdom tooth. Left untreated, a wisdom tooth infection can lead to serious complications, which is why it’s important to recognize the symptoms and understand the causes of the infection.
In this article, we’ll explore the common symptoms of a wisdom tooth infection, the causes behind it, and how to prevent and treat it.
Symptoms of Wisdom Tooth Infection
When a wisdom tooth becomes infected, the symptoms can vary from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the infection. Here are the most common symptoms associated with a wisdom tooth infection:
1. Pain Around the Affected Tooth
Pain is one of the first and most noticeable signs of a wisdom tooth infection. You may feel a constant throbbing pain near the back of your mouth, or the pain could intensify when chewing, talking, or touching the area. This pain may spread to your jaw, ear, or neck, making it difficult to focus on daily tasks.
2. Swelling and Redness
Swelling around the infected area is common in the early stages of a wisdom tooth infection. The gum tissue surrounding the tooth may become inflamed and appear red or swollen. This swelling can extend to the surrounding tissues, including your cheeks and jaw, making it even more uncomfortable.
3. Difficulty Opening the Mouth
As the infection progresses, you may experience difficulty opening your mouth fully. This is because the swelling and inflammation affect the muscles and tissues around the infected wisdom tooth. It can make eating, drinking, and speaking challenging.
4. Foul Taste or Odor
If food particles or bacteria become trapped in the area around the partially erupted wisdom tooth, it can lead to a foul taste or unpleasant odor in the mouth. This is often caused by infection or abscess formation.
5. Gum Bleeding or Pus
In more severe cases, an infection can lead to the formation of an abscess, which is a pocket of pus. This may cause the gum to bleed or discharge a foul-smelling pus when you press on the infected area. The pus may be yellow or white in color.
6. Fever
As your body attempts to fight off the infection, you may develop a fever. A fever is a sign that your immune system is working to combat the bacterial infection. If your fever persists or worsens, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention.
7. Tender Lymph Nodes
The lymph nodes near the affected area, such as under your jaw or in your neck, may become tender or swollen as the infection spreads. This is a typical response to infection, as your body tries to filter out the bacteria.
Causes of Wisdom Tooth Infection
Several factors contribute to the development of a wisdom tooth infection. Understanding these causes can help you take preventive measures and seek treatment if needed.
1. Partially Erupted Wisdom Teeth
One of the most common causes of a wisdom tooth infection is a partially erupted tooth. This happens when the tooth doesn’t fully emerge through the gum line, leaving a flap of gum tissue over it. This flap can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to infection. In some cases, the infection can spread to surrounding tissues, causing more severe complications.
2. Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth occur when there is not enough space in the mouth for the tooth to emerge properly. The tooth may remain stuck beneath the gum line or emerge at an angle, putting pressure on surrounding teeth and tissues. This can create an ideal environment for bacteria to grow, leading to infection. Impacted wisdom teeth are often more prone to infection because they are difficult to clean properly.
3. Poor Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene can contribute to the development of a wisdom tooth infection. If you’re unable to effectively clean your wisdom teeth or the area around them, plaque and bacteria can build up, increasing the risk of infection. Flossing and brushing around the back of your mouth can be tricky, but it’s essential to maintain proper oral care to avoid infections.
4. Cavities or Decay
Wisdom teeth, like any other teeth, can develop cavities. If the tooth is partially erupted or impacted, it can be harder to detect and treat any decay. A cavity in a wisdom tooth can serve as an entry point for bacteria, leading to infection. Cavities and decay can also affect the surrounding gum tissue and cause inflammation.
5. Injury or Trauma
An injury or trauma to a wisdom tooth can also lead to infection. For example, if the tooth is cracked or damaged due to an accident or physical impact, bacteria can enter through the damaged area and cause an infection. This can happen if the tooth is already weak or impacted.
6. Weakened Immune System
People with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to infections, including wisdom tooth infections. Conditions like diabetes, HIV/AIDS, or undergoing chemotherapy can lower your body’s ability to fight off bacteria, increasing the likelihood of infections in the mouth and elsewhere.
7. Gum Disease
If you have gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, the tissues surrounding your wisdom teeth may be more vulnerable to infection. Gum disease leads to the breakdown of the tissues that support your teeth, making it easier for bacteria to enter and infect your wisdom teeth.
Preventing Wisdom Tooth Infections
Although it’s not always possible to avoid wisdom tooth infections, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
- Practice good oral hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth regularly, especially around the back of your mouth where your wisdom teeth are located.
- Visit the dentist regularly: Routine dental checkups can help detect problems with your wisdom teeth before they become serious. Your dentist can monitor the progress of your wisdom teeth and advise you on whether extraction or other treatments are needed.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking can impair your body’s ability to fight infections, so quitting or reducing smoking can lower your risk of developing a wisdom tooth infection.
- Seek dental care early: If you notice any symptoms of a wisdom tooth infection, such as pain or swelling, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent the infection from spreading.
Conclusion
A wisdom tooth infection can be painful and disruptive to your daily life, but with early detection and proper care, it can be treated effectively. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s important to consult with your dentist to determine the best course of action. In some cases, removal of the wisdom teeth may be recommended to prevent future infections and complications. By understanding the symptoms and causes of a wisdom tooth infection, you can take proactive steps to protect your oral health and avoid more serious dental issues down the road.
If you are experiencing a wisdom tooth infection or have any dental concerns that need immediate attention, Emergency Dental 365 is available to provide expert care and relief. Their team of professionals is ready to assist you with urgent dental needs, ensuring you get the treatment you require without delay. Don’t wait – take action early to preserve your oral health and avoid more severe complications.
Author: Emergency Dental 365
If you are looking for emergency dental services, Emergency Dental 365 is a healthcare provider specializing in this field. The clinic focuses on addressing urgent dental issues, including toothaches, broken teeth, and oral injuries.
