Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25. Due to limited space, these molars often become partially impacted, emerging only partway through the gum line. This incomplete eruption creates a flap of gum tissue (operculum) over the tooth’s crown. Bacteria, plaque, and food debris easily become trapped beneath this flap, leading to infection and inflammation, a condition known as pericoronitis. Recognizing the signs of this infection is important for preventing complications, as symptoms can progress from localized discomfort to systemic involvement.
Localized Indicators of Infection
The earliest signs of a wisdom tooth infection are confined to the immediate area in the back of the mouth. Persistent, throbbing pain is a common indicator, localized in the back of the jaw and sometimes radiating toward the ear or head. This discomfort often intensifies when chewing or when pressure is applied to the infected site.
Visible changes to the gum tissue are another sign of a problem. The gum tissue surrounding the partially erupted tooth will appear swollen, tender, and red. This inflammation is the body’s response to the bacterial invasion occurring beneath the gum flap.
As the infection progresses, it can create a foul taste or odor in the mouth (halitosis). This is caused by the accumulation of bacteria and the discharge of pus from the inflamed area. A visible pus discharge, appearing as a whitish or yellowish fluid oozing from the gum tissue, confirms the presence of an active bacterial infection.
Signs of Systemic Involvement
If the localized infection is not addressed, it can spread beyond the immediate site, triggering generalized body responses. One sign of this spread is difficulty opening the mouth fully, known as trismus. Trismus occurs because inflammation causes the jaw muscles to stiffen and spasm, limiting their range of motion.
Swelling can also extend externally, presenting as puffiness of the face or cheek on the side of the infected tooth. This external swelling signals that the inflammatory process has moved into the surrounding soft tissues. The infection can also make swallowing difficult or painful (dysphagia), as inflammation affects nearby throat structures.
Systemic involvement is also indicated by generalized symptoms, such as a low-grade fever or a feeling of being unwell. The body’s immune system reacts to the spreading bacteria by increasing its core temperature. Swollen lymph nodes, often felt as tender lumps under the jaw or in the neck, are a sign that the body is fighting a widespread infection.
Seeking Professional Dental Care
Recognizing the signs of a wisdom tooth infection requires contacting a dental professional without delay to prevent the condition from worsening. Early intervention is important because an untreated infection can lead to complications, such as an abscess or the spread of bacteria into deeper neck spaces. If symptoms include difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, or a high fever, immediate emergency care is necessary.
The typical treatment for pericoronitis involves a thorough cleansing of the affected area to remove trapped debris and bacteria. The dentist may prescribe antibiotics to eliminate the infection, especially if there is evidence of fever or facial swelling. Once the acute infection is managed, the dentist will discuss a long-term plan, which often includes the eventual extraction of the wisdom tooth to prevent future recurrences.