how to know if wisdom tooth is infected

How to Know if Your Wisdom Tooth is Infected

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last four molars to erupt in the mouth. They usually appear in the late teens or early twenties. Wisdom teeth often get impacted, meaning they don’t have enough room to come in properly, which can lead to infection.

Symptoms of an Infected Wisdom Tooth

If you think you may have an infected wisdom tooth, it’s important to see a dentist right away. Here are some common symptoms:

• Severe pain
• Sensitivity to hot or cold
• Swelling of the gums and face
• Bad breath
• Difficulty opening your mouth
• Fever
• Chills
• Nausea and vomiting

Causes of Wisdom Tooth Infection

Wisdom teeth can become infected for a number of reasons, including:

• Food getting trapped around the tooth
• Plaque and bacteria building up on the tooth
• Gum disease
• Trauma to the tooth
• Decay

How to Prevent Wisdom Tooth Infection

There are a few things you can do to help prevent wisdom tooth infection, including:

• Brushing your teeth twice a day
• Flossing daily
• Using a mouthwash
• Eating a healthy diet
• Seeing your dentist regularly for checkups

Treatment for Wisdom Tooth Infection

If you have an infected wisdom tooth, your dentist will likely recommend one of the following treatments:

• Antibiotics to clear up the infection
• Pain medication to relieve pain and inflammation
• Surgery to remove the tooth

Conclusion

If you think you may have an infected wisdom tooth, it’s important to see a dentist right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications.

Check out our other articles on wisdom teeth:

• Wisdom Teeth: Everything You Need to Know
• Wisdom Tooth Pain: How to Get Relief
• Wisdom Tooth Removal: What to Expect

FAQ about Infected Wisdom Tooth

1. What are the symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth?

• Severe pain that throbs or pulses
• Swelling in the jaw or cheek
• Redness and tenderness around the wisdom tooth
• Difficulty opening your mouth or chewing
• Bad breath or a foul taste in your mouth
• Fever or chills

2. How do I know for sure if my wisdom tooth is infected?

Visit a dentist for a diagnosis. They will examine your tooth, take X-rays, and ask about your symptoms.

3. What causes a wisdom tooth to become infected?

• Food or bacteria trapped under the gum tissue
• Gum disease
• Tooth decay
• Injury or trauma to the tooth

4. What should I do if I think my wisdom tooth is infected?

See a dentist as soon as possible. Infection can spread to other parts of your mouth and body if left untreated.

5. How is an infected wisdom tooth treated?

Treatment options may include:

• Antibiotics to kill the infection
• Pain relievers to manage discomfort
• Root canal therapy to remove the infected pulp
• Tooth extraction

6. What happens if I don’t treat an infected wisdom tooth?

Untreated infection can lead to:

• Abscess or pus-filled swelling
• Sepsis, a potentially life-threatening infection
• Damage to nearby teeth and bone

7. Can I prevent wisdom tooth infection?

Yes, by:

• Brushing and flossing regularly
• Visiting the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings
• Avoiding sugary foods and drinks

8. Is it normal for wisdom teeth to hurt?

Some discomfort is common when wisdom teeth come in. However, severe pain or infection requires professional attention.

9. Do I need to have my wisdom teeth removed?

Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed. However, removal may be recommended if the teeth are impacted, infected, or causing problems.

10. How long does it take to recover from wisdom tooth removal?

Recovery time varies, but most people experience some pain and swelling for a few days or weeks. Follow your dentist’s instructions for proper healing.