Infected Wisdom Tooth Symptoms: What to Look Out for and How to Treat It

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last adult teeth to emerge, typically appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. For many people, wisdom teeth can cause no issues, but for others, these late-blooming molars can lead to severe pain, infection, and other dental problems. If your wisdom teeth become infected, prompt treatment is essential to prevent long-term complications and protect your overall oral health. This article explores infected wisdom tooth symptoms, the risks of leaving them untreated, and the best treatment options available.

How Do You Know If Your Wisdom Tooth Is Infected? Key Symptoms to Watch For

A wisdom tooth infection—also known as pericoronitis—can occur when food particles, bacteria, and debris get trapped under the gum flap of a partially erupted wisdom tooth. This can cause pain, swelling, and other health problems that, if left untreated, may require more invasive procedures.

Here are the key symptoms that could indicate an infected wisdom tooth:

1. Persistent Throbbing Toothache

A deep, throbbing toothache around the wisdom tooth is one of the first signs of infection. The pain may radiate to the jaw or ear or even cause headaches.

2. Swollen, Tender, or Bleeding Gums

The gum tissue around an infected wisdom tooth may become red, swollen, and sensitive. You might also experience bleeding when brushing or flossing near the affected area.

3. Jaw Pain and Stiffness

An infection can lead to swelling and discomfort in the jaw, making it difficult to open your mouth fully. This stiffness can worsen over time if left untreated.

4. Bad Breath or an Unpleasant Taste

A bad taste in your mouth or persistent bad breath may indicate that bacteria and food particles are trapped around the wisdom tooth, leading to infection.

5. Swollen Lymph Nodes

Your lymph nodes—located in your neck or under your jaw—may become swollen and tender as your body fights the infection.

6. Fever and Feeling Unwell

If the infection spreads, you may experience fever, chills, and fatigue—signs that your immune system is responding to the bacterial overgrowth.

7. Difficulty Opening Your Mouth

Severe swelling from an infected wisdom tooth can lead to difficulty opening your mouth fully, a condition known as trismus.

8. Pus Around the Tooth

Pus or drainage around the gum line near the affected wisdom tooth is a clear sign of infection and should be treated immediately.

If you’re experiencing any of these infection signs, don’t ignore them. Early detection and treatment from a dentist can prevent severe consequences such as gum infections, tooth decay, and even damage to other teeth. Schedule an appointment as soon as possible to protect your overall oral health.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Get Infected? Understanding the Root Cause

There are multiple reasons why wisdom teeth can cause infections:

1. Impacted Wisdom Teeth

When there isn’t enough room for wisdom teeth to erupt fully, they can become partially impacted wisdom teeth or fully impacted teeth. This can trap bacteria beneath the gum, leading to wisdom teeth infection.

2. Partially Erupted Wisdom Teeth

A partially erupted wisdom tooth creates a small opening in the gum that allows bacteria to enter, leading to infection, gum infections, and tooth decay.

3. Poor Oral Hygiene

If food and debris accumulate around your wisdom tooth, bacteria can thrive, increasing the risk of gum disease and infection.

4. Pressure on Other Teeth

Sometimes, a wisdom tooth pushes against other teeth, leading to pain, crowding, and an increased risk of dental problems.

Complications of an Untreated Infected Wisdom Tooth

Leaving an infected wisdom tooth untreated can result in serious complications beyond oral discomfort. Without timely treatment, the infection may spread, leading to long-term risks that impact both your oral and overall health. Here are some of the most serious risks associated with an untreated wisdom tooth infection.

• Spread of Infection: Bacteria can travel through the bloodstream, potentially spreading to other areas of the body.
• Jaw and Facial Swelling: An untreated infection can cause inflammation of the jaw and face.
• Gum Disease: Chronic infections around the wisdom teeth can lead to periodontal disease, raising the risk of tooth loss.
• Cysts and Abscesses: Fluid-filled sacs can form around impacted wisdom teeth, damaging the jawbone and nearby teeth.
• Difficulty Eating and Speaking: Severe swelling and jaw pain can make it hard to chew or talk properly.
• Sinus Problems: Upper wisdom teeth infections can affect the sinuses, causing pressure and congestion.
• Swollen Lymph Nodes & Fever: Signs of your body fighting an infection, often accompanied by fatigue.
• More Invasive Procedures Required: Delaying treatment may result in complex oral surgery.
• Life-Threatening Risks: Can lead to Ludwig’s Angina (airway obstruction) or sepsis (infection spread throughout the body).

If you suspect an infection, seeking early intervention from a dentist can prevent long-term complications.

Treatment Options: How to Get Rid of an Infected Wisdom Tooth

The right treatment for an infected wisdom tooth depends on the severity of the infection. Here’s what a dentist may recommend:

1. Antibiotics for Mild Infections

If the infection is in its early stages, a dentist may prescribe antibiotics to clear up the bacteria. However, this is only a temporary solution, wisdom teeth removal may still be necessary.

2. Draining the Infection

For severe cases, the dentist may drain the infected area to remove pus buildup and reduce swelling.

3. Wisdom Teeth Removal: The Permanent Solution

If wisdom teeth impaction or infection persists, a dentist will likely recommend surgical removal. The dentist performs this procedure under local anaesthesia. Once removed, the risk of future infections significantly decreases.

4. Pain Management and Home Care

Before or after wisdom teeth removal, you can manage symptoms with:

• Saltwater rinses to reduce inflammation
• Over-the-counter pain relievers for discomfort
• Good oral hygiene to prevent further bacterial buildup

Wisdom Teeth Removal: What to Expect During and After Surgery

If your wisdom teeth removed is necessary, here’s what you need to know:

Before Surgery

• Your dentist will assess your condition using X-rays.
• You may receive local anaesthesia or sedation for comfort.
• The procedure typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes.

During Surgery

• The dentist makes a small incision in the gum tissue.
• The wisdom tooth is carefully extracted, sometimes in pieces if necessary.
• The area is cleaned, and stitches may be placed if needed.

After Surgery

• Expect swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort for a few days.
• Avoid hard foods and alcohol while the area heals.
• Follow post-operative care instructions to prevent gum infections and ensure a successfully treated recovery.

How to Prevent Future Wisdom Teeth Infections

Prevention is always better than cure. To reduce the risk of wisdom teeth infection, follow these oral care tips:

1. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene

• Brush and floss around the gum line and back teeth regularly.
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to kill bacteria.

2. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Regular check-ups allow early detection of impacted wisdom teeth or infection risks.

3. Consider Preventative Wisdom Teeth Removal

If your wisdom teeth can cause complications, removing them early may be the best option.

When to See a Dentist for an Infected Wisdom Tooth

If you experience any of the following, don’t delay seeking professional help:

• Severe pain that doesn’t subside
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Bleeding gums that persist
• Unpleasant taste that won’t go away

These symptoms may indicate a worsening infection that requires immediate attention from an experienced dentist.

Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Oral Health from Wisdom Tooth Infections

An infected wisdom tooth isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. Whether you’re dealing with pain, swelling, or a bad taste, don’t ignore the signs of infection. Seeking timely treatment can prevent long-term complications and help you maintain overall oral health.

If you suspect an infection, schedule an appointment with Balmoral Dental Centre today at (07) 3113 9789 for an evaluation and personalised treatment options.

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

References

• Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Wisdom teeth: Symptoms & causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/wisdom-teeth/symptoms-causes/syc-20373808
• GoodRx. (n.d.). Popular over-the-counter pain relievers. Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/pain/popular-over-the-counter-pain-relievers
• Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Tooth loss. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/tooth-loss