What are the Symptoms of a Wisdom Tooth Infection?
September 22, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
An infection in a wisdom tooth or its surrounding area can cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Pain and Discomfort: Persistent, throbbing, or sharp pain in the back of the mouth, usually behind the molars, is a common symptom.
- Swelling and Redness: Swelling of the gums around the affected wisdom tooth, along with redness and tenderness, can occur.
- Difficulty or Painful Chewing: Chewing or biting down on food may be uncomfortable or painful due to the infection.
- Foul Taste or Odor: An unpleasant taste or odor in the mouth can result from the accumulation of pus or infection.
- Jaw Stiffness or Difficulty Opening the Mouth: Swelling and inflammation can cause stiffness or limited movement of the jaw.
- Headache or Earache: Pain in the head or ears, often on the same side as the affected tooth, can be experienced.
- Difficulty Swallowing: Swelling and discomfort may make swallowing difficult, especially if the infection is severe.
- Fever: In some cases, a low-grade fever may develop as the body tries to fight off the infection.
- Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Swollen and tender lymph nodes in the neck or under the jaw are a sign that the body is responding to an infection.
- Bad Breath (Halitosis): The presence of an infection can lead to foul-smelling breath.
It’s important to seek dental care if you suspect a wisdom tooth infection. Your dentist can conduct a thorough examination, possibly including X-rays, to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment. Treatment may involve antibiotics, pain management, and in some cases, wisdom tooth extraction if the infection is recurrent or severe.