Having wisdom teeth can be a blessing and a curse. Although they can help you eat certain types of food, they can also cause problems. One of the most common issues associated with wisdom teeth is infection. It is important to be able to recognize the signs of an infected wisdom tooth so that you can seek treatment right away. In this article, we will discuss how to know if your wisdom teeth are infected and what you should do if they are.The most common signs of an infected wisdom tooth are swelling in the area, pain when chewing or biting down, redness and tenderness in the gums around the area, a bad taste in the mouth, and an unpleasant odor coming from the mouth. Other symptoms could include fever, facial swelling, headache, and difficulty opening the mouth. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible.
How Can I Tell If My Wisdom Teeth Are Infected?
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that usually come in during the late teens or early twenties. They are the last teeth to erupt in your mouth and can cause a lot of discomfort when they start coming in. It is important to know how to tell if your wisdom teeth are infected, as this can lead to serious dental problems if left untreated.
One of the first signs of an infection is pain or discomfort in the area where your wisdom teeth are erupting. This may be accompanied by swelling, redness, or tenderness in the gums around your wisdom teeth. You may also notice a foul smell coming from your mouth or taste when you eat food that is near the area where your wisdom teeth are located.
If you have an infection, you may also see pus coming from around your wisdom teeth. This is a sign that bacteria has entered the area and needs to be treated right away. Your dentist will likely recommend antibiotics to help clear up any infection and may also recommend having your wisdom teeth removed if it is determined that they are causing more harm than good.
Your dentist may also take x-rays of your mouth to check for any signs of an infection and help them determine if extraction is necessary. If there is an infection present, it is likely that it has spread beyond just the area around your wisdom teeth and will need to be treated with antibiotics before any extraction can take place.
Once an infection has been cleared up, you should still make sure to brush and floss regularly around all of your teeth, including those near where your wisdom teeth were located. Keeping good oral hygiene habits will help prevent future infections from occurring in this area and keep all of your other teeth healthy as well.
Fever
Fever is one of the most common symptoms of coronavirus. A fever over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit is considered a sign of infection. Symptoms may include chills, sweating, headache, and body aches. If you have a fever, it’s important to contact your doctor right away to get tested for COVID-19.
Coughing
Coughing is another symptom that can indicate you have the virus. It may be a dry cough or one that produces mucus from your lungs. It can be accompanied by chest pain or tightness, shortness of breath, and fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor right away for testing.
Shortness Of Breath
Shortness of breath is a sign that your body is struggling to get enough oxygen. It can be accompanied by chest pain or tightness and increased heart rate. If you are having trouble breathing or feel like you can’t get enough air, contact your doctor immediately.
Loss Of Smell And Taste
Some people with coronavirus report losing their sense of smell and taste as well as experiencing other cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose or sore throat. If you experience any changes in your sense of smell or taste, make sure to contact your doctor immediately for testing.
Fatigue
Fatigue is another symptom that could indicate an infection with the virus. This could present itself as extreme tiredness and lack of energy even when you’re getting enough sleep. If you are feeling unusually tired or exhausted for no apparent reason, make sure to contact your doctor right away for testing.
When Should I See a Dentist for an Infected Wisdom Tooth?
If you are experiencing pain or swelling in the area around your wisdom teeth, it is important to see a dentist right away. The longer you wait, the more serious the infection can become and the more difficult it will be to treat. Wisdom teeth infections can cause serious complications such as facial swelling, difficulty opening your mouth, and even damage to the surrounding teeth and gums if left untreated. To avoid these issues, it is best to visit a dentist as soon as possible if you notice any signs of infection.
Your dentist will perform a physical exam of your mouth and take x-rays to determine if there is an infection present. If an infection is found, they may recommend removing the wisdom tooth or prescribing antibiotics to treat it. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the tooth and any debris that has accumulated around it.
It is important to keep in mind that wisdom teeth infections can be very serious and should not be taken lightly. If you notice any signs of infection near your wisdom teeth, make sure to visit your dentist immediately for evaluation and treatment. Left untreated, infections can lead to further medical complications and cause damage that cannot be reversed.
What Causes an Infection in My Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth can cause a great deal of discomfort when they begin to emerge, and unfortunately, they’re also prone to infections. Wisdom teeth infections are caused by bacteria entering the gum line around the emerging wisdom tooth and causing an inflammation. This is often due to a lack of proper oral hygiene, poor diet, misaligned wisdom teeth, or crowded teeth. When bacteria enter the inflamed area around the wisdom tooth, it creates an infection that can cause severe pain and swelling. If not treated promptly, the infection can spread and cause further damage to your gums and other teeth. If you experience pain or swelling near your wisdom teeth, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible so that the infection can be treated properly.
In order to prevent wisdom tooth infections from occurring in the first place, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing twice a day and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups. Eating a balanced diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables is also important for maintaining dental health as well as avoiding sugary snacks that can lead to cavities. Additionally, if you have misaligned wisdom teeth or crowded teeth, it’s best to get them treated by an orthodontist as soon as possible so that they do not create further issues down the road.
Preventing an Infection of Wisdom Teeth
Preventing an infection of wisdom teeth is key for keeping your oral health in check. Regularly brushing and flossing your teeth is essential for preventing any type of infection, including infections of the wisdom teeth. In addition, regular visits to a dentist can help identify any potential issues with wisdom teeth before they become infected.
It is also important to practice good oral hygiene habits when it comes to food and drinks that may be harmful to your teeth and gums. Sugary drinks, hard candy, and sticky foods should be avoided as they can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
If you have wisdom teeth that are already impacted or partially erupted, it is important to take extra precautions to avoid an infection. Regularly cleaning the area around the wisdom teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and antiseptic mouthwash can help reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, applying a warm compress to the area may help reduce swelling and pain associated with an impacted or partially erupted wisdom tooth.
If you experience persistent pain or swelling in your mouth that does not go away after a few days, it is important to visit a dentist as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis can help prevent further complications from developing due to an infection of the wisdom teeth.
In summary, practicing good oral hygiene habits such as regularly brushing and flossing your teeth can help prevent infections of the wisdom teeth. Additionally, avoiding foods that are high in sugar or stickiness can reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease which could lead to infections around the wisdom teeth. If you experience persistent pain or swelling in your mouth it is important to seek medical attention right away in order to prevent further complications from developing due to an infection of the wisdom teeth.
Treatment Options for an Infected Wisdom Tooth
An infected wisdom tooth can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms including pain, swelling, and bad breath. If not addressed promptly, the infection can spread to other parts of the mouth and body. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available for those suffering from an infected wisdom tooth.
The first option is to have the tooth removed by a dentist or oral surgeon. This is usually recommended when the infection has become too severe to be treated with antibiotics or another form of medication. During the surgery, the dentist will remove the affected tooth and any surrounding tissue that may be infected. This is typically done under local anesthesia so that patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure.
Another option is to have root canal therapy on the affected tooth. During this procedure, a dentist will clean out any infection in the pulp chamber of the tooth and then fill it with a medicated material to prevent further infection. This can help save a severely infected tooth instead of having it removed altogether.
Finally, antibiotics can be prescribed by a dentist or physician in order to treat an infected wisdom tooth. These medications can help reduce inflammation and fight off any bacteria causing the infection. However, antibiotics may not be enough in some cases and other treatments may still need to be considered in order to fully resolve the issue.
No matter which treatment option is chosen, it’s important to follow up with regular dental checkups afterwards in order to ensure that no more infections develop in the future. Taking good care of your teeth and gums on a daily basis can also help reduce your risk for developing an infected wisdom tooth in the first place.
Home Remedies for Treating a Wisdom Tooth Infection
Wisdom teeth can cause pain and discomfort, and in some cases, they can become infected. Although wisdom tooth infections can be serious and require professional dental care, there are some home remedies that can help reduce the symptoms associated with the infection.
One of the first steps in treating a wisdom tooth infection is to keep the affected area clean. This means brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash. Doing these things will help to reduce bacteria buildup in your mouth and help prevent further infection.
You should also avoid eating foods that are too hot or cold, as well as acidic or sugary foods. These types of foods can irritate the affected area and make the pain worse. Additionally, you should try to get plenty of rest to help your body heal itself.
Taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also help to reduce inflammation and pain associated with a wisdom tooth infection. Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the area for 15 minutes several times a day may also provide relief from swelling and tenderness.
If you have an abscessed tooth, it may be necessary to use a warm salt-water rinse or diluted hydrogen peroxide rinse several times per day to help reduce bacteria and draw out any pus that has accumulated in the area. Additionally, it may be helpful to apply clove oil directly to the affected area for its anti-inflammatory properties.
It is important to note that home remedies are not always enough when it comes to treating wisdom tooth infections. If your symptoms persist or worsen despite trying these remedies, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible for further treatment.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth infections can be painful and uncomfortable, and they can quickly become worse if left untreated. It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect that your wisdom teeth are infected. If you experience any of the common symptoms of an infection, such as pain, swelling, or fever, you should contact your dentist for further evaluation. Your dentist will be able to examine your mouth and determine whether or not an infection is present. Depending on the severity of the infection, they may recommend antibiotics or even removal of the affected tooth.
By understanding what signs and symptoms to look out for, you can identify when a wisdom tooth infection has occurred and act quickly to treat it. Early treatment can help reduce your risk of further complications and help ensure that your wisdom teeth remain healthy.