Reviewed by Dr. Matthew Young, DDS
Reading time: three minutes
Pain or swelling near a wisdom tooth is common. What starts as mild discomfort can gradually become more persistent over time, making it important to understand what may be happening.
Table of Contents
- Causes of Infected Wisdom Teeth
- What Is a Wisdom Tooth Infection?
- Infected Wisdom Tooth Symptoms
- What Causes a Wisdom Tooth Infection?
- Is an Infected Wisdom Tooth an Emergency?
- Wisdom Tooth Infection Treatment at Young Dental SF Group
- Wisdom Teeth Removal in San Francisco
- FAQs
Causes of Infected Wisdom Teeth
What Is a Wisdom Tooth Infection?
While any tooth can decay, wisdom teeth (third molars) are susceptible to a specific type of infection called pericoronitis. This occurs when the gum tissue surrounding a tooth that hasn’t fully emerged becomes inflamed and infected.
Infected Wisdom Tooth Symptoms
Symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the infection, but they often begin with localized discomfort and progress if untreated.
Common signs include:
- Pain near the back of the jaw
- Swelling of the gums around the tooth
- Redness or tenderness in the area
- Difficulty opening the mouth fully
- Bad taste or odor caused by drainage
- Pus or white fluid near the affected area
- Swollen lymph nodes
As the infection progresses, symptoms may extend beyond the immediate area and affect overall oral function.
What Causes a Wisdom Tooth Infection?
Several factors can contribute to the development of a wisdom tooth infection. In most cases, the issue is related to how the tooth erupts and how easily the area can be cleaned.
Partial Eruption
When a wisdom tooth does not fully emerge, a small flap of gum tissue can remain over part of the tooth. This creates a space where bacteria can accumulate.
Impacted Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth remain trapped beneath the gum or bone. This can create pressure, inflammation, and an increased risk of infection.
Difficulty Cleaning the Area
The position of wisdom teeth makes brushing and flossing more difficult. Plaque buildup in these areas can quickly lead to bacterial growth.
Is an Infected Wisdom Tooth an Emergency?
A wisdom tooth infection may require prompt care, especially if symptoms are worsening or spreading beyond the immediate area.
Potential complications include:
- Spread of infection to surrounding tissues
- Damage to nearby teeth
- Increased pain and swelling
- Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth
- In rare cases, more serious systemic involvement
Signs such as significant swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing may indicate a more urgent situation. Early evaluation helps limit progression and reduces the likelihood of more complex treatment.
Wisdom Tooth Infection Treatment at Young Dental SF Group
At Young Dental SF Group, our dentists evaluate wisdom tooth infections with attention to both immediate symptoms and long-term oral health. The clinical team assesses the position of the tooth, the condition of the surrounding tissue, and the likelihood of recurrence before recommending next steps.
Care may include monitoring, targeted cleaning, or wisdom tooth removal when needed. The focus is on addressing the source of infection while maintaining overall oral stability.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in San Francisco
To book an appointment at our dental office in San Francisco, call (415)392-8611. Visit us at 490 Post Street Suite 830, San Francisco, CA.
FAQs
It often appears as swollen, red gum tissue around the tooth, sometimes with visible drainage or a gum flap partially covering the area.
Symptoms may temporarily improve, but the underlying cause often remains. Professional evaluation is typically needed to address the source.
A wisdom tooth infection may persist for days or longer without treatment and often progresses rather than resolves on its own. The duration depends on how quickly the source of the infection is managed.
In some cases, the area can be managed with cleaning and monitoring. Removal may be recommended if infections recur or the tooth is impacted.