Signs of an Abscess in Wisdom Teeth

For most of us, wisdom teeth or the third set of back molars erupt in the late teens or twenties. These third molars don’t have roots and are not really helpful. In fact, they can cause severe oral health issues as they tend to erupt at odd angles or are often impacted( fully or partially trapped in the gums or jaw) due to space constraints. Caries and gum infections are common as the wisdom teeth are difficult to reach and care for. Pain while eating, red, swollen back gums and bad breath all point to an abscess in your wisdom teeth. Dentists in Vaughan consider a wisdom tooth abscess as a serious issue requiring prompt treatment. They might suggest complete wisdom teeth removal to stem the infection spread to other teeth and gums. Here’s how to spot early symptoms of a wisdom tooth abscess and prevent complications.

What Causes a Wisdom Teeth Abscess?

While tooth abscesses develop as an infection around a tooth root, wisdom teeth can develop abscesses around the gum due to: 

• A partially erupted or impacted wisdom tooth that traps food and bacteria.
• Bacterial infection from poor oral hygiene due to wisdom teeth position
• Pericoronitis or gum inflammation around a wisdom tooth.
• Decay caused by untreated wisdom tooth cavities.

Signs of Wisdom Tooth Abscess

#1 Persistent, Throbbing Tooth Pain

A wisdom tooth abscess usually triggers throbbing tooth pain that radiates around the jaw, ear, or neck. The ache can worsen while chewing or applying pressure. 

#2 Inflammation & Redness Around the Back Gums

Red, swollen, or tender gums near your wisdom teeth are indications of an abscess. There might be a red or white spot or pimple in the gum surrounding the wisdom tooth. Visible pus or yellowish discharge from it indicates a severe infection—your dentist in Vaughan will probably suggest prompt wisdom teeth removal.

#3 Bad Breath or Foul Taste in the Mouth

Persistent dragon breath in spite of regular brushing and oral care is another sign of wisdom tooth abscess or infection. You’ll notice a foul, metallic taste when the pus drains or oozes out of the abscess.

#4 Swallowing or Difficulties Opening the Mouth  

An acute wisdom tooth abscess can cause jaw stiffness or excruciating pain when moving the mouth. Pain while speaking or eating due to the swelling is another indication of a wisdom tooth abscess. 

#5 Fever and General Illness

Apart from swollen and tender neck lymph nodes, accompanying fever, chills, and tiredness mean a severe infection that needs immediate care. 

When to Consult Your Dentist in Vaughan

Dentists classify wisdom tooth abscesses as a crisis because the resulting infection can extend to the jaw and other surrounding tissues. An untreated wisdom tooth abscess can fester and also cause tooth loss. Immediately consult with an experienced dentist in Vaughan if symptoms worsen. Over-the-counter pain relievers and warm saltwater rinses can alleviate pain while you get to your dentist. Do not delay or hold back treatment due to dental anxiety or fear; Mackenzie Dental Centre offers sedation dentistry in Vaughan for calming dental anxiety for comfortable and relaxed wisdom teeth removal. 

Treatment Options for an Abscessed Wisdom Tooth

Your dentist will diagnose a wisdom tooth abscess by an examination and may take an X-ray for clarity on the extent of tooth damage and infection. The treatment can cover:

• Draining the wisdom tooth abscess to remove accumulated pus and relieve pressure. 
• Prescribing antibiotic treatment to control infection.
• Wisdom tooth extraction may be required for impacted or severely damaged wisdom teeth, as the infection can reoccur and damage the healthy teeth around it. 

Preventing Wisdom Tooth Infections

Brushing, flossing, and mouthwash should be non-negotiable elements of your dental hygiene regimen to prevent wisdom tooth abscesses. Regular check-ups with your Vaughan dentist will help monitor wisdom teeth development and spot possible problems at their early stages. Consider early wisdom tooth extraction for impacted teeth or to prevent problems at later stages. 

Wrapping Up

Pain and infection around a wisdom tooth, decay, and inflammation are all symptoms of an abscess. Contact a qualified dentist for wisdom tooth screening ASAP for possible abscesses and early treatment to prevent severe complications. Mackenzie Dental is your trusted dental clinic offering wisdom teeth removal with the option of comfortable and calming sedation dentistry in Vaughan. Experience exceptional dental care in Vaughan under Dr. Lloyd Pedvis and his competent team—Call Mackenzie Dental Centre today!  

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