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how to get rid of infected wisdom tooth

how to get rid of infected wisdom tooth

3 min read 05-02-2025
how to get rid of infected wisdom tooth

An infected wisdom tooth is a painful and potentially serious problem. Ignoring it can lead to more significant complications. This article explains how to deal with an infected wisdom tooth, focusing on the necessary steps to take and when to seek professional dental care. Getting rid of an infected wisdom tooth requires a visit to the dentist; home remedies can only offer temporary relief.

Understanding Wisdom Tooth Infection

Wisdom teeth, the third molars at the back of your mouth, often become impacted (unable to fully erupt) or grow at an angle. This can create pockets that trap food and bacteria, leading to infection. Symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth include:

  • Severe pain: This is often the most prominent symptom, radiating to your ear, jaw, or throat.
  • Swelling: Your gums and jaw may swell significantly around the affected tooth.
  • Redness and tenderness: The gums around the wisdom tooth will likely be red, inflamed, and very sensitive to touch.
  • Bad breath: A persistent bad taste or foul-smelling breath can indicate infection.
  • Difficulty opening your mouth: Severe swelling can make it difficult to open your mouth fully.
  • Fever and chills: A high fever and chills are signs of a more systemic infection.
  • Pus: A white or yellowish discharge may be visible around the wisdom tooth.

Important: If you experience any of these symptoms, do not delay seeking professional dental care.

What NOT to Do

Before we discuss what to do, let's clarify what you absolutely should not do:

  • Don't try to remove the tooth yourself: This is extremely dangerous and can lead to severe complications, including bleeding, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth and nerves.
  • Don't ignore the infection: Delaying treatment allows the infection to worsen, potentially leading to serious health issues such as cellulitis (a bacterial skin infection) or even a life-threatening condition called Ludwig's angina.
  • Don't rely solely on home remedies: While over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain temporarily, they don't address the underlying infection.

Seeking Professional Help: The Only Effective Solution

The only way to permanently get rid of an infected wisdom tooth is through professional dental intervention. Here's what to expect:

1. Diagnosis and Assessment

Your dentist will examine your mouth, take X-rays, and assess the severity of the infection. This helps determine the best course of treatment.

2. Treatment Options

Depending on the severity of the infection and the position of the wisdom tooth, your dentist may recommend one of the following:

  • Antibiotics: To combat the bacterial infection. Your dentist will prescribe the appropriate antibiotic based on the type of bacteria involved.
  • Drainage: If a noticeable abscess (a pocket of pus) is present, the dentist may drain it to relieve pressure and pain.
  • Extraction: This is the most common treatment for infected wisdom teeth. The tooth will be surgically removed. Simple extractions can be performed in the dental office, while impacted teeth may require oral surgery under local or general anesthesia.

3. Post-Extraction Care

After extraction, your dentist will provide instructions for post-operative care, which typically includes:

  • Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage discomfort. Your dentist may also prescribe stronger pain medication if needed.
  • Bleeding control: Bite firmly on a gauze pad to control bleeding.
  • Oral hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by gently brushing and rinsing your mouth with saltwater.
  • Diet: Follow a soft food diet for the first few days after the extraction.
  • Follow-up appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure the extraction site is healing properly.

Home Remedies for Temporary Pain Relief (While Waiting for Dental Appointment)

While home remedies cannot cure an infected wisdom tooth, they can offer temporary relief from pain and discomfort while you wait for your dental appointment:

  • Saltwater rinse: Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gently rinse your mouth several times a day. This helps clean the area and reduce inflammation.
  • Cold compress: Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling.
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain. Follow the dosage instructions carefully.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Severe swelling that spreads rapidly
  • High fever (over 101°F or 38.3°C)
  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction (e.g., rash, hives, difficulty breathing)

An infected wisdom tooth is a serious condition requiring professional dental care. Don't delay seeking treatment; early intervention can prevent serious complications and ensure a quicker recovery. Remember to contact your dentist or oral surgeon as soon as you suspect an infection.

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