If you have infected wisdom teeth, you need to contact our office immediately. The information below will detail how to know if you have contracted an infection. Extracting the teeth is often advised for this reason. The teeth can crowd other teeth and are harder to clean. That is why their removal often leads to improved dental health.
The wisdom teeth, called the third molars, are located at the very back part of the mouth. These teeth are often considered unnecessary, as they can crowd the other teeth or cause problems with the dentition. However, because they often are impacted, extraction is frequently recommended. If the teeth are not removed, infection can become a problem that could have been easily solved had they been removed.
If wisdom teeth become infected, the gum near the wisdom tooth or teeth will become red and inflamed. Swelling and pain are both common symptoms, as well as pus. You may also experience swollen lymph nodes beneath your jaw. Patients often have problems with swallowing or opening and closing their mouths. Halitosis or bad breath is another indicator of an infection. When a wisdom tooth becomes infected, the condition is known as pericoronitis. In most cases, we have to remove the teeth, as leaving them in the mouth will not prevent another future infection.
Do you still have your wisdom teeth? If so, you should have them checked and possibly schedule an extraction. Doing so, in the long, run, will save you a lot of trouble orally and physically. An infection can lead to some serious conditions that have nothing to do with your dental health. That is why we strongly suggest you contact us if you still have your third molars. We want to ensure your dental and medical health, so please give our office a call today.
