Wisdom Teeth Infection: Symptoms and Treatments

Wisdom teeth infections occur when bacteria invade the area around one or more of the third molars, commonly known as wisdom teeth. This is more likely if the teeth are partially or fully trapped in the gums, creating small pockets where food and bacteria can gather and build up.

The challenging position of wisdom teeth at the back of the mouth makes them hard to clean with regular brushing and flossing. This lack of access to oral hygiene creates an ideal environment for bacterial growth, heightening the likelihood of infection and potentially leading to complications if not addressed promptly.

Recognizing wisdom teeth infection symptoms, including discomfort, swelling, and changes in taste, may signal an impending infection. Early identification of these signs can help prevent complications and ensure prompt management for better oral health.

Anatomy of Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are usually the last set to develop, emerging late between ages seventeen and twenty-five. There are four wisdom teeth: two on the top and two on the bottom, one on each side.

These large teeth are located behind the second molars at the end of the dental arches. The crown is the visible portion when the tooth emerges and is covered with enamel. Underneath the enamel lies the dentin, which forms the tooth’s main structure and provides support and durability.

The tooth’s pulp consists of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue that provide nutrients and allow sensation. Wisdom teeth typically have one to four roots, which anchor the tooth into the jawbone. The periodontal ligament cushions the tooth and connects it to the bone socket in the jaw.

Like other molars, wisdom teeth serve the same role in chewing. However, due to their later development compared to the surrounding teeth, they often have limited space for growth. This restriction increases the chance of food particles and bacteria accumulating, causing plaque buildup and raising the risk of infection.

Causes of Wisdom Teeth Infection

Wisdom teeth infections are a common dental concern that can cause discomfort and potentially result in more serious issues if left untreated. Understanding these infections and recognizing the causes equip you to know when to seek help to avoid infection.

Blocked Tooth

Impaction occurs when wisdom teeth are blocked from fully emerging through the gums. This is often caused by a lack of space in the jaw or improper alignment, which prevents the teeth from growing normally. Impacted wisdom teeth may partially emerge, grow at an angle, or even develop sideways.

A partial eruption can create small pockets around the tooth, where food particles and plaque accumulate. If left untreated, this can result in cavities and more severe infections as bacteria penetrate the enamel. Impacted wisdom teeth can also press against adjacent teeth, causing decay.

This makes it more challenging to keep the area clean, increasing the risk of infection. Genetics often influence jaw size and tooth alignment, meaning some individuals are more prone to impaction. A smaller jaw or misaligned teeth can increase the likelihood of wisdom teeth becoming impacted and subsequently infected.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Inadequate brushing and flossing allow food particles and bacteria to build up around hard-to-reach wisdom teeth, creating a sticky layer of plaque. This plaque can harbor various pathogens on its surface and in the natural pits and grooves of the wisdom teeth.

If not removed, plaque solidifies into tartar, which can only be eliminated through professional dental care. Skipping regular dental checkups worsens this issue, as tartar buildup, tooth decay, and early signs of infection may go unnoticed, potentially leading to gum and tooth complications.

Gum Flaps

Gum flaps, or operculum, are gum tissue pockets that typically form over partially erupted wisdom teeth. These flaps create an ideal environment for bacterial overgrowth, as food particles and bacteria can easily become trapped beneath the gum tissue.

The difficulty in keeping proper oral hygiene around the flap often leads to pericoronitis, an infection that affects the gum tissue around a partially emerged tooth. The inflammation can spread if left untreated, causing further discomfort and potential complications.

Dental Decay and Cavities

Cavities commonly develop due to poor oral hygiene and the challenge of thoroughly cleaning the back of the mouth where wisdom teeth are located. When food particles, saliva, and bacteria remain on your teeth, they release acids that wear down the enamel and may cause decay.

If not promptly addressed, it progresses and forms cavities—visible holes or damage in the tooth structure. As the decay deepens, it can lead to a wisdom tooth infection, which can spread to the surrounding gums, increasing the risk of abscess formation.

Late Tooth Growth

Delayed eruption occurs when wisdom teeth take longer than usual to emerge, even when they are not blocked or misaligned. This slow emergence leaves the gum partially open around the tooth, creating spaces where food particles and bacteria can easily accumulate.

Without regular brushing and flossing, these areas become prone to plaque buildup, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. This may result in inflammation and a higher likelihood of infection, potentially causing more severe dental problems.

Crowded Teeth

Crowding occurs when your jaw lacks enough space to accommodate all your teeth, causing them to become misaligned or pressed against each other. When wisdom teeth try to emerge in an already crowded mouth, they can push against neighboring teeth or remain partially impacted.

This misalignment creates narrow, hard-to-clean spaces where food particles and bacteria become trapped. As these particles accumulate, they promote plaque buildup, leading to decay and infection around the wisdom teeth later on.

Tooth Structure

The crown of a wisdom tooth often has deep crevices, including fissures and pits that are difficult to clean. These grooves are naturally narrow and deep, making it challenging for toothbrush bristles to reach and remove debris effectively.

This allows food particles and bacteria to become lodged in the area, promoting the buildup of plaque and increasing the chance of tooth decay. If not addressed, it can lead to gum inflammation and enamel erosion, which may result in infection.

Gum Trauma or Injury

Injury to the gum tissue around wisdom teeth—whether from accidental biting, external trauma, aggressive brushing, or irritation caused by partially erupted teeth—can create openings in a tooth that allow bacteria to enter and cause infection.

Repeated injuries in the mouth can prevent healing and increase the risk of infection. The position of wisdom teeth at the back of the mouth further complicates healing, as this area is constantly exposed to pressure from chewing, which allows infections to develop and persist.

Signs and Symptoms of Infection

Wisdom teeth infections can present a variety of symptoms. Recognizing these can help identify an infection promptly and take necessary steps to address it or inform you when to seek medical help.

Pain and Discomfort

One of the earliest and most noticeable signs of a wisdom tooth infection is pain, discomfort, or tenderness in the affected area. This pain can radiate to your jaw, ear, and head.

Chewing, touching the area, or even opening the mouth aggravates the discomfort. An infection around a wisdom tooth leads to inflammation of the surrounding tissues, placing pressure on nearby structures and intensifying the pain and discomfort.

As the infection progresses, the pain becomes more persistent and worsens without intervention. This constant discomfort can make it challenging to carry out daily activities like eating, speaking, or sleeping, which may negatively affect one’s overall well-being.

Swelling and Redness

Common indicators of an infection include swelling and redness around the wisdom teeth, sometimes extending outside the face on the cheeks, signaling that your body is actively fighting the infection. As the immune system increases blood flow to the area, your gums may become inflamed, tender, warm, and visibly red.

This swelling can be uncomfortable and obstruct access to the affected tooth, making it difficult to keep the area clean with regular brushing and flossing. The swelling may radiate to the cheeks, causing facial puffiness and slightly restricting jaw movement.

Bad Breath or Foul Odor

Bad breath or a foul odor often accompanies wisdom tooth decay and infections. The unpleasant smell, usually sour or rotten, is caused by bacteria and pus. The odor can persist even with regular brushing and mouthwash because the bacteria are deep within the gum tissues.

Bad breath often worsens after eating or after waking up, as trapped food particles around the infected tooth feed the bacteria and intensify the smell. Saliva production decreases during sleep, allowing bacteria to actively multiply and create a more pungent smell.

Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity may indicate an infection in the wisdom teeth. You may feel a sudden jolt of pain or discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages. This occurs because the inflammation is irritating the nerves in your tooth.

Sensitivity can be intermittent but may become constant as the infection progresses. Brushing or flossing near the infected tooth can also trigger heightened sensitivity due to the inflamed tissues. This symptom often indicates the infection has spread to deeper areas, affecting the root and surrounding nerves.

Lump in the Neck and Jaw

Lymph node swelling commonly occurs with a wisdom teeth infection as nearby lymph nodes enlarge in response to the infection. This indicates that the lymph nodes are actively working to filter out bacteria and other pathogens.

The swollen lymph nodes often become tender and warm as the infection advances. This occurs due to inflammation and increased blood flow, reflecting the immune system’s effort to combat the infection.

Bleeding

Bleeding around the wisdom teeth can indicate an infection. Infection leads to swelling and sensitivity in the gum tissue, which can cause bleeding during activities such as brushing, flossing, or eating. The swelling disrupts the gum’s normal structure, making small blood vessels more prone to bleeding.

Sometimes, bleeding can occur spontaneously without direct pressure. Persistent bleeding suggests that the infection has advanced to deeper layers of the gum and surrounding tissues. Without treatment, it may lead to severe complications, including gum recession, abscess formation, and the spread of infection to adjacent teeth.

Pus

Pus indicates that you may have a wisdom teeth infection, signaling that your body is actively fighting off the infection. It often appears as a thick, yellowish, or greenish fluid discharge with a sticky texture composed of dead white blood cells, bacteria, and tissue debris.

In many cases, pus builds up inside an abscess—a swollen, painful pocket that forms either at the tip of the tooth’s root or within the gums beside the tooth.

If the abscess ruptures or drains, it may create a foul taste in your mouth and cause persistent bad breath. This can make it hard to enjoy food, feel confident in social situations, or maintain good oral hygiene, as the effects may linger despite regular brushing.

Difficulty Chewing or Swallowing

Wisdom teeth infections often lead to inflammation and swelling around the affected area, making chewing painful and difficult. This swelling can restrict jaw movement, complicating the process of breaking down food and causing discomfort while eating.

As the infection advances, it can further inflame the gums and surrounding tissues, increasing pain during swallowing and creating a sensation of tightness in the throat. This symptom can affect one’s eating ability and adversely affect nutritional intake.

Difficulty Opening the Mouth

An infected wisdom tooth can lead to trismus, making it difficult to open one’s mouth. This occurs when inflammation and swelling from the infection spread to the muscles around the jaw, resulting in muscle stiffness and tightness.

Consequently, the jaw may feel “locked” or restricted, making it uncomfortable to chew, speak, or open wide. This limited movement can complicate oral hygiene, as the associated discomfort may discourage individuals from brushing their teeth and maintaining proper oral cleaning routines.

Fever

A fever is a common systemic response to a wisdom teeth infection. You might experience a cycle of chills as the body tries to raise its temperature and sweat to cool down. These are normal responses as the body regulates its temperature while fighting off an infection.

The fever often accompanies feelings of fatigue and a general sense of discomfort. Persistent or high fever can indicate that the infection is severe or spreading beyond the area of the affected tooth.

Other Causes of Tooth Pain

Pain around the tooth and gum area can often be mistaken for a wisdom tooth infection, but it may stem from other underlying dental issues. These related causes of tooth pain share some of the symptoms of a wisdom tooth infection, making it important to understand and differentiate between them.

Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, may cause tooth pain. It starts with gingivitis, where gums become red, swollen, and bleed easily. If untreated, it can advance to periodontitis, where the gums detach from the teeth, creating spaces prone to infection.

This may lead to swelling and pain in the gum tissue surrounding the wisdom teeth. As gum disease progresses, the tissues and bones that support your teeth can be destroyed, resulting in loose teeth and persistent pain.

Teeth Grinding and Fractures

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, commonly occurs during sleep and can cause tooth pain. Continuous grinding between teeth can erode the enamel, making teeth more sensitive, prone to jaw pain and headaches, and fracture or crack teeth over time.

A fractured tooth can cause severe pain, especially while eating or when exposed to hot or cold, as it exposes the pulp, one of the tooth’s sensitive inner layers. Fractures can also occur due to decay, trauma, or biting on hard objects.

Empty Tooth Socket

When a tooth is extracted, a protective blood clot forms at the extraction site to shield the underlying bone and nerves while healing takes place. In a dry socket or alveolar osteitis, this blood clot dissolves or dislodges too early, leaving the extraction site exposed.

This makes the underlying bone and nerves vulnerable to air, food, and fluids, causing severe pain that often radiates to the ear, eye, or neck. The exposure can also create a sensation that part of the tooth remains lodged in the gums and is often mistaken for a wisdom tooth infection.

Dental Cysts

Dental cysts are sacs filled with fluid that can form within the gums, around the roots of teeth, or in the jawbone. While less common, they remain a potential source of pain, particularly when they develop around impacted or unerupted wisdom teeth due to infection, trauma, or other factors.

Smaller cysts may be asymptomatic, but larger ones can put pressure on nearby teeth and surrounding structures. This can result in tooth displacement, pain during biting, and increased sensitivity. In certain cases, they can cause infection and, in rare instances, contribute to the formation of tumors.

When to See a Dentist

You should see a dentist if you experience pain around your wisdom teeth that lasts more than three days, worsens over time, or if discomfort is manageable but persistent. Swelling around the jaw, redness in the gums, and difficulty opening your mouth for several days are clear indicators to seek professional help.

If you notice additional signs of infection, such as pus, a persistent bad taste in your mouth, or a fever above 100.4°F, you should contact a dentist immediately. These symptoms suggest a severe infection that requires prompt treatment to prevent further health complications.

Confirming Wisdom Teeth Infection

Your dentist will employ several diagnostic procedures to accurately diagnose wisdom teeth infections. These procedures are crucial in determining the extent of the disease and formulating the appropriate treatment plan.

Medical History

To confirm a wisdom teeth infection, the dentist will gather information about previous dental issues, such as infections, gum disease, or wisdom teeth problems. They’ll also assess underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or immune disorders, which may impair healing and increase the risk of infection.

The dentist will review your medications, especially those that affect healing or suppress the immune system, as they can increase infection risk. The dentist will note any allergies to antibiotics or anesthesia to ensure safe treatment. Your oral hygiene habits and any past dental surgeries will also be evaluated.

Visual Examination

During your visit, the dentist will carefully evaluate the affected wisdom tooth. They will visually check for signs of infection inside the mouth, such as redness, swelling, and pus. The dentist will also gently feel the gums around the wisdom tooth to detect tenderness or any abnormal swelling.

This exam can also detect inflammation or abscesses, which may indicate a more advanced infection. Additionally, they will evaluate the depth of gum pockets around the wisdom teeth to determine the extent of the disease.

Dental X-ray

A dental X-ray is a critical diagnostic tool for viewing the position and alignment of your wisdom teeth beneath your gums. X-rays allow the dentist to see if the teeth are stuck beneath the gums or growing at an angle, like sideways or tilted, which might predispose you to complications.

This imaging can also reveal damage to nearby teeth, roots, or bone structures caused by impacted or emerging wisdom teeth. It also reveals cysts or other hidden issues that may not be seen during visual examination. This process is crucial for planning treatments and monitoring long-term dental health.

Home Remedies for Wisdom Teeth Infection

Although home remedies cannot cure a wisdom teeth infection, they can relieve symptoms while you wait for your dental appointment. These remedies provide natural and accessible options to reduce pain, inflammation, and bacterial presence.

Saltwater Gargle

A saltwater rinse is a simple method for maintaining oral hygiene and preventing further complications from the infection. The saltwater’s antibacterial properties help reduce bacteria, decrease swelling, and promote healing in the infected tooth.

A standard amount of salt, about a teaspoon, is commonly used in a saltwater rinse to create a gentle solution for oral care. Rinsing for 30 seconds allows the salt solution to cleanse the mouth and adequately target affected areas.

Spitting out the solution after rinsing helps remove the bacteria and debris that were loosened during the process. Repeating this rinse 2-3 times can soothe sore gums and relieve temporary pain.

Cold Compress

Encase an ice pack in a cloth and gently press it against your cheek near the painful tooth. Exposure to cold tightens the blood vessels, limiting blood flow to the affected area. This helps minimize inflammation and swelling while easing the throbbing sensation often associated with wisdom tooth pain.

For optimal results, apply the compress for 15–20 minutes at a time. Be sure to pause briefly to let your skin rest and prevent irritation or frostbite caused by prolonged cold exposure. This method works best when used several times a day.

Clove Oil

Clove oil is recognized for its analgesic and antiseptic properties, making it a well-known remedy for toothaches and infections. To use clove oil as a home remedy, apply a small amount directly to the infected area using a cotton swab or your fingertip.

The oil helps numb the pain and reduce inflammation from swollen gums and irritated tissues. You may feel a tingling or a warm sensation when the oil is applied, which is normal and part of the numbing effect. You can use clove oil 1-2 times daily for effective relief.

Garlic

Garlic is a well-known remedy for wisdom teeth infections due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Press a clove of garlic to extract its juice, then carefully apply it directly to the infected with a clean cotton swab or your fingertip.

Its active compound, allicin, helps inhibit bacterial growth and reduce inflammation. It’s common to feel a slight burning or tingling sensation, which is normal and part of garlic’s action in fighting the infection. Use fresh garlic and apply it once or twice a day for best results.

Tea Remedies

Tea can be an effective remedy for alleviating discomfort from wisdom tooth infections. Consuming 2-3 cups of peppermint tea daily is helpful. The menthol in peppermint has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that provide a mild numbing effect and antibacterial qualities that support oral health by reducing bacteria.

The tannins in the tea have natural anti-inflammatory and astringent properties that help reduce swelling, soothe irritated gums, and provide pain relief. For optimal results, steep a black or green tea bag, let it cool, and place it on the affected area for 10–15 minutes multiple times a day.

Turmeric Paste

Combine turmeric powder with water to create a paste, then carefully apply it to the affected area using a new and clean cotton swab or your fingertip. This may help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation caused by a wisdom teeth infection.

Turmeric contains curcumin, a key compound known for its natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. For optimal results, apply the paste once or twice a day and leave it on for ten to fifteen minutes before rinsing with warm water.

Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel is recognized for its soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe irritation and reduce inflammation associated with wisdom teeth infections. Use a slight amount of fresh aloe vera gel or a natural product and apply it directly to the infected area.

It has also antibacterial properties that help prevent the infection from spreading. For optimal results, leave the gel on for ten to fifteen minutes before rinsing with warm water and use it one to two times daily to manage symptoms.

Treatments for Wisdom Teeth Infection

When home remedies are ineffective in alleviating symptoms of a wisdom teeth infection, medical treatments are available to address the underlying issues. These treatments can help manage pain, reduce inflammation, permanently address the issue, and prevent further complications.

Medications

Initially, over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to alleviate the pain caused by wisdom teeth infections. These medications provide temporary relief, assisting individuals to manage symptoms while awaiting further dental treatment. Following the dosage instructions is essential to prevent potential side effects.

When you visit the clinic for a wisdom tooth infection, your dentist will assess the severity of the disease and, if needed, prescribe antibiotics to eliminate the bacterial infection. Antibiotics are typically taken for seven to ten days before any additional procedures.

Your dentist may recommend antiseptic mouthwash in conjunction with antibiotics to reduce bacteria and promote healing. After the infection is under control, the dentist may prescribe more potent pain medications to manage pain before and after any necessary treatments.

Draining the Tooth Infection

When a wisdom tooth infection results in an abscess, incision and drainage are necessary. In some cases, initial antibiotics are prescribed to reduce infection and promote natural drainage.

However, if the infection persists or the pus does not drain, the dentist will proceed with the procedure. The dentist will make a small cut in the gum to release the pus, which is crucial for relieving pressure and alleviating pain.

After draining the pus, the dentist thoroughly cleans the affected area to remove any infected material or debris that could lead to further complications. The incision may be left open for continued drainage or to facilitate natural healing.

The dentist recommends a saline rinse or mouthwash at home to keep the incision site clean. Post-procedure antibiotics will be prescribed to prevent reinfection, and pain medications will help manage discomfort during recovery.

Gum Flap Removal

Operculectomy is a procedure to remove the gum tissue covering the wisdom tooth. It is recommended for patients with recurrent infections around a partially erupted wisdom tooth. Removing the gum flap exposes the wisdom tooth, making the area more accessible for brushing and flossing.

This helps inhibit food particles and bacteria from building up, which could cause additional infections. The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia, which is sufficient to numb the area around the wisdom tooth and minimize discomfort.

Operculectomy is a relatively quick and less invasive procedure compared to extraction. However, if the condition persists, the dentist may still recommend extraction as a more permanent solution.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Extraction of the wisdom tooth is considered when alternative treatments are unsuccessful, or the tooth is severely impacted and repeatedly causes infections. Removing the wisdom tooth eliminates the source of the infection and prevents future associated dental problems. It is usually performed under anesthesia to control pain and ensure patient comfort.

Risks after wisdom tooth removal may include bleeding, dry socket, numbness, and temporary jaw weakness. These side effects usually subside within a few days to weeks but should be closely monitored for any complications.

What to Expect During Surgery

The procedure generally lasts 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the tooth’s position and the condition of the surrounding tissues. During a wisdom tooth extraction, the dentist applies local anesthesia to block sensation in the affected area around the tooth. For complex cases, sedation or general anesthesia might be administered.

The dentist incises in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and bone, which is crucial for accessing the impacted or deeply embedded tooth. This is done carefully to create enough space for the tooth to be extracted without damaging the surrounding structures.

If the tooth is hard to extract in one piece, the dentist may divide it into smaller sections to facilitate removal. You might feel pressure as the dentist works throughout this process, but you should not feel pain due to the anesthesia.

After the tooth is fully extracted, the dentist cleans the site thoroughly and may place stitches to close the incision. Gauze is applied to control bleeding and assist with clot formation. The surgical team ensures the extraction site is stable before the procedure is completed.

Expect swelling and discomfort as the anesthesia wears off. Adhering to post-operative care guidelines, such as maintaining oral hygiene, avoiding smoking, and eating soft foods, is crucial to avoiding infections and complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical symptoms of a wisdom teeth infection?

Common symptoms of a wisdom teeth infection include localized pain and discomfort concentrated around the affected tooth. This pain may extend to nearby areas like the jaw, ear, or head and can worsen with chewing or when pressure is applied.

Patients might also notice increased tooth sensitivity and find it challenging to open their mouths or chew comfortably due to the accompanying inflammation and swelling in the surrounding gums. As the infection progresses, more severe symptoms can develop.

These may include pus, persistent bad breath, and a foul taste in the mouth, all of which indicate bacterial growth. Swollen lymph nodes and systemic symptoms like fever can signal that the infection is becoming more serious, necessitating immediate medical attention.

What causes wisdom teeth infections, and what are the risk factors involved?

Wisdom teeth infections often occur due to impaction, where the teeth fail to fully emerge from the gum line, creating pockets where bacteria can thrive. Other causes include gum flaps that trap food particles and plaque, leading to infections like pericoronitis.

Various risk factors heighten the likelihood of developing a wisdom tooth infection. Inadequate brushing and flossing habits can allow bacteria to build up around wisdom teeth, especially since these teeth are hard-to-reach areas.

The anatomy of wisdom teeth complicates cleaning efforts due to their deep grooves and pits, which can trap food particles and plaque. Additionally, gum trauma from aggressive brushing or accidental biting can damage the gum tissue, creating openings that permit bacteria to infiltrate and lead to infection.

What treatment options are available for wisdom teeth infections?

Treatment options for wisdom teeth infections range from home remedies to medical interventions. Saltwater rinses effectively reduce inflammation and promote healing among home remedies. Cold compresses can aid in alleviating pain and swelling, while clove oil is known for its natural analgesic and antibacterial properties.

If home treatments do not offer relief, medical treatments include prescription medications like antibiotics to eliminate bacterial infections and procedures like incision and drainage or operculectomy. In severe cases, wisdom tooth extraction may be necessary to prevent recurrent infections and further complications.

How are wisdom teeth infections diagnosed?

Diagnosing a wisdom teeth infection involves a thorough oral examination along with a review of the patient’s symptoms and medical history. The dentist looks for signs of redness, swelling, and discharge around the affected tooth.

A dental X-ray is essential for a more in-depth assessment, as it helps visualize the teeth’ positioning beneath the gums. This imaging procedure reveals misalignment, impaction, and damage to adjacent teeth or bone structures, aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.