Wisdom Teeth

I have a wisdom tooth infection, how do I treat it?

Is your wisdom tooth causing you pain or discomfort? Do you need some tailored advice and care?

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically erupt between 17 and 25. While some people may not experience any discomfort, others may develop pain and discomfort for various reasons.

This can include a lack of space in the mouth for the teeth to erupt correctly, improper alignment, and impaction. In addition, when wisdom teeth become impacted, meaning they cannot emerge fully from the gums, they can cause pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth and gums.

Pericoronitis is a common complication associated with wisdom teeth. It occurs when the gum tissue surrounding a partially erupted wisdom tooth becomes inflamed and infected. This can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty opening the mouth. Pericoronitis can also cause bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth. Left untreated, pericoronitis can lead to more severe infections and even damage to nearby teeth.

The pain caused by wisdom teeth and pericoronitis can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, making it difficult to eat, speak, or perform daily activities. In addition to pain, other symptoms of wisdom teeth problems can include swelling of the gums or jaw, redness and tenderness of the gums, and even headaches.

When it comes to treating wisdom teeth pain, there are several options available, including:

• Painkillers: Over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be used to manage mild to moderate wisdom teeth pain.
• Antibiotics: If an infection is associated with wisdom teeth, antibiotics may help clear the infection.
• Saltwater rinses: Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing of the gums.
• Extraction: In some cases, wisdom teeth may need to be extracted to relieve pain and prevent further complications.
• Gum surgery: In cases where the wisdom tooth is impacted, gum surgery may be necessary to remove the gum tissue that is covering the tooth and causing the problem.
• Orthodontic treatment: If wisdom teeth are causing pain due to overcrowding or misalignment, orthodontic treatment may be recommended to alleviate the discomfort and prevent further complications.

Overall, seeking treatment for wisdom teeth pain and complications is essential as soon as possible to prevent further damage and promote healing.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in the UK provides guidelines for managing dental problems, including pericoronitis. According to NICE guidelines, the initial treatment for pericoronitis should include the removal of any debris from the affected area and rinsing the mouth with warm salt water. Pain relief medication may also be prescribed if necessary. If the symptoms persist, antibiotics may be recommended.

In general, the decision to remove wisdom teeth will depend on several factors, including the number of episodes of pericoronitis, the severity of the symptoms, and the position of the wisdom teeth. There is no specific number of episodes of pericoronitis that would automatically lead to a recommendation for removal, as each case is unique.

However, if a patient experiences frequent episodes of pericoronitis that are not adequately managed with conservative treatment or if there is evidence of damage to surrounding teeth or gums, then a referral for removal may be considered.

It is important to note that the decision to remove wisdom teeth should be made individually, considering the patient’s overall health, dental history, and preferences.

We are experienced in removing wisdom teeth and are always happy to help.

Often, wisdom teeth do not cause a problem, but they can become impacted and begin to cause issues for your other healthy teeth. Extracting your wisdom tooth is a simple surgical procedure and one we are very experienced in at Tracey Bell clinics.