Why Ignoring an Early Stage Wisdom Tooth Infection Could Be Dangerous

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Why You should Not Ignore An Early Stage Wisdom Tooth Infection

Have you ever experienced pain or swelling in the back of your mouth, particularly in the area of your wisdom teeth? If so, you might have a wisdom tooth infection, also known as pericoronitis. Ignoring this condition could lead to not only more pain or discomfort but also more serious complications. In this article, we will explain why an early stage wisdom tooth infection could be dangerous and what you should do to prevent or treat it.

Understanding Wisdom Teeth and Infections

Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are located at the back of your mouth, usually erupting between ages 17 and 25. In some cases, however, they may not fully emerge or grow properly, causing various problems such as impaction, crowding, or infections. When a wisdom tooth fails to come out of the gum or partially covers it, bacteria can get trapped between the tooth and the flap of tissue that covers it, leading to inflammation and infection. The symptoms of a wisdom tooth infection may include pain, swelling, redness, bad breath, difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing, fever, or swollen lymph nodes.

Why Ignoring an Early Stage Wisdom Tooth Infection Could Be Dangerous

An early stage wisdom tooth infection may not sound too serious, especially if the pain is mild or goes away by itself. However, leaving it untreated could increase your risk of developing more severe complications such as:

– A more severe or chronic infection, that could spread to surrounding teeth, gums, or bone, and cause more pain, swelling, or fever. In some cases, an abscess or a pocket of pus may form, requiring drainage or surgery.
– Damage to nearby teeth or structures, such as decay, erosion, or shifting. A wisdom tooth infection could also weaken the bone that supports nearby teeth, making them more vulnerable to damage or displacement. If the infection spreads, it could affect nerves, sinuses, or blood vessels, causing more serious health issues.
– Increased risk of systemic infections, that could affect your overall health and require medical attention. An untreated wisdom tooth infection could spread bacteria into your bloodstream, leading to conditions such as endocarditis, pneumonia, or sepsis. These conditions could be life-threatening, especially for people with weakened immune systems, heart or lung diseases, or diabetes.

How to Prevent and Treat a Wisdom Tooth Infection

To avoid the risks and complications of a wisdom tooth infection, you should take care of your dental health and prioritize regular check-ups with your dentist. If you have wisdom teeth that are partially covered, impacted, or causing discomfort, your dentist may recommend their extraction to avoid future problems.

If you suspect that you have a wisdom tooth infection, you should seek dental care as soon as possible. Your dentist will evaluate your condition and provide the appropriate treatment, which may include:

– Antibiotics: to control the infection and reduce inflammation. Your dentist may prescribe pain relievers or a saltwater rinse to ease your symptoms.
– Drainage: to remove any pus or debris that has accumulated around the affected tooth.
– Extraction: to remove the wisdom tooth permanently, especially if it is causing recurrent infections or other problems. An extraction may require local anesthesia or sedation, and your dentist will provide instructions for aftercare.

In conclusion, ignoring an early stage wisdom tooth infection could have serious consequences for your oral and overall health. By taking care of your dental hygiene, attending regular check-ups, and seeking dental care promptly, you can avoid or manage this condition safely and effectively. Don’t let a wisdom tooth infection go unnoticed, or it may lead to a painful lesson you don’t want to learn.

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