Infection

When an impacted wisdom tooth starts to push through the gum, an infection can start around the top of the tooth. Infection and inflammation (swollen, red gums) can cause pain, swelling, and jaw stiffness. The infection can cause bad breath and an unpleasant taste. Swallowing may be painful. The person may feel generally unwell.

If the infection is not immediately untreated, it sometimes can even lead to a life threatening problem. The infection can spread to under the tongue and throat leading to inability to breath. In these kind of situation, emergency hospitalisation would be necessary.

Your dentist may gently clean the infected area around the tooth. You may be advised to rinse your mouth often with a warm saltwater mouthwash. Use one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. The water should be as warm as possible, but not too hot.

Your dentist may also suggest a disinfectant mouthwash and a pain killer. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics.

Sometimes the infection on the lower wisdom tooth may be made worse by upper wisdom tooth hitting on the lower gum area. In such situations both upper and lower wisdom tooth may be adviced to be removed.