Posted on 12/16/2024 by Randolph Center for Dental Excellence
We all know the importance of good oral care, but even the most diligent brushers and flossers can sometimes develop problems with their wisdom teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth are a common issue, and they can lead to a variety of complications, including infection.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the four permanent teeth located at the back of your mouth, two on the top and two on the bottom. They usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 25, but not everyone gets them. Wisdom teeth are often called "third molars" because they are the third set of molars to erupt.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Sometimes Need to be Removed?
Wisdom teeth often don't have enough room to erupt properly, which can cause them to become impacted. When a wisdom tooth is impacted, it can be difficult to clean, which can lead to infection. Impacted wisdom teeth can also cause other problems, such as:
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Pain
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Swelling
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Crowding of other teeth
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Damage to nearby teeth
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Jaw cysts or tumors
How Do I Know If My Wisdom Tooth is Infected?
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may have an infected wisdom tooth:
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Severe pain in the back of your mouth
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Swelling in your jaw or cheek
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Redness and tenderness in the gums
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Difficulty opening your mouth
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Pus discharge from the gums
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Fever
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Swollen lymph nodes in your neck
What Should I Do If I Think My Wisdom Tooth is Infected?
If you think you have an infected wisdom tooth, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. They will be able to examine your mouth and take an X-ray to determine if your wisdom tooth is impacted and infected.
Treatment Options for Infected Wisdom Teeth
The most common treatment for an infected wisdom tooth is to have it extracted, or removed. This is usually done in the dentist's office under local anesthesia. In some cases, you may need to be referred to an oral surgeon for the extraction.
After the wisdom tooth is extracted, you will need to take antibiotics to clear up the infection. You may also need to take pain medication. It is important to follow your dentist's instructions carefully after the extraction to ensure that the infection heals properly.
Can I Prevent Wisdom Teeth Infections?
The best way to prevent wisdom teeth infections is to practice good oral care. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist for regular checkups. If you have any concerns about your wisdom teeth, be sure to talk to your dentist.
Restoration Dentistry
If you have had a wisdom tooth extracted, you may need to consider restoration dentistry to replace the missing tooth. Restoration dentistry can help to improve the appearance of your smile and prevent your other teeth from shifting. Your dentist can discuss your options with you and help you choose the best treatment plan for your needs.
Randolph Center for Dental Excellence Dr. Bryan Freeman and Dr. Cheryl Freeman
Dental Blog | Dentist Asheboro, NC | Randolph Center for Dental Excellence Drs. Bryan Freeman & Cheryl Freeman are offering this educational blog as a resource to the great Asheboro, NC community. Click here to read our latest posts! Randolph Center for Dental Excellence, 134 Davis Street, Asheboro, NC 27203; (336) 444-2772; freemandds.com; 1/21/2025; Page Keywords: dentist Asheboro NC;
We all know the importance of good oral care, but even the most diligent brushers and flossers can sometimes develop problems with their wisdom teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth are a common issue, and they can lead to a variety of complications, including infection.