Did you know that wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood? These teeth are called “wisdom teeth” because they typically come in at a time when a person is considered to be wiser and more mature.
Wisdom teeth can sometimes become impacted, meaning they do not have enough room to emerge properly. This can lead to a variety of issues, including infection. When wisdom teeth are impacted, bacteria can become trapped around the tooth, causing an infection to develop. This can result in symptoms such as pain, swelling, and difficulty opening the mouth.
In fact, studies have shown that up to 80% of impacted wisdom teeth can become infected at some point. Infections around wisdom teeth can be serious and may require treatment such as antibiotics or even surgical removal of the tooth. It is important to monitor the eruption of wisdom teeth closely and consult with a dentist if any signs of infection occur.
While not all wisdom teeth will become infected when coming in, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with their emergence. Regular dental check-ups and monitoring of the development of wisdom teeth can help catch any potential issues early and prevent infections from occurring. If you experience any symptoms of infection around your wisdom teeth, it is crucial to seek treatment promptly to prevent further complications.
Can Wisdom Teeth Become Infected While Emerging?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, have a tendency to become impacted when they emerge, leading to potential infections. This occurs when the teeth do not have enough room to properly come in, causing them to partially erupt or become trapped beneath the gum line. When this happens, bacteria can easily get trapped around the tooth, leading to inflammation and infection. In some cases, these infections can cause pain, swelling, and potentially serious complications if left untreated. To learn more about the risks of wisdom teeth infections and how to prevent them, continue reading our comprehensive guide below.
Can wisdom teeth get infected when coming in?
Yes, wisdom teeth can get infected when they are coming in. When wisdom teeth start to erupt through the gums, they can create pockets where bacteria can build up and cause an infection. This is especially common if there is not enough room in the mouth for the wisdom teeth to fully emerge.
Symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth include:
- Pain or tenderness around the affected tooth
- Swelling in the gums or jaw
- Difficulty opening the mouth
- Bad breath
- Foul taste in the mouth
How to prevent infection in wisdom teeth
There are several ways to prevent infection in wisdom teeth as they come in:
- Regular dental check-ups to monitor the development of wisdom teeth
- Practicing good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly
- Using an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacteria in the mouth
- Following any recommendations from your dentist for wisdom tooth removal
Treatment for infected wisdom teeth
If you suspect that your wisdom teeth are infected, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Treatment for infected wisdom teeth may include:
- Prescription antibiotics to clear the infection
- Drainage of any abscesses that have formed
- Removal of the impacted wisdom tooth
- Over-the-counter pain medication to manage discomfort
Statistic:
According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, about 85% of wisdom teeth will eventually need to be removed due to crowding or impaction.
Can wisdom teeth cause infections when coming in?
Yes, wisdom teeth can become infected when they are coming in. This is because they often do not have enough space to fully emerge, making them more prone to bacteria buildup and infection.
How do I know if my wisdom teeth are infected?
Common signs of an infected wisdom tooth include severe pain, swelling, redness, and pus around the affected area. You may also experience difficulty opening your mouth or a bad taste in your mouth.
What should I do if I think my wisdom teeth are infected?
If you suspect your wisdom teeth are infected, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. They can assess the situation and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics or removal of the tooth.
Can I prevent infections when my wisdom teeth are coming in?
While it may not be possible to completely prevent infections when wisdom teeth are coming in, maintaining good oral hygiene can help reduce the risk. Brushing and flossing regularly, as well as using an antiseptic mouthwash, can help keep bacteria at bay.
Are infections from wisdom teeth dangerous?
If left untreated, infections from wisdom teeth can be dangerous. They can lead to more serious complications such as abscesses, bone loss, and even systemic infections that affect other parts of the body.
Do all wisdom teeth become infected?
Not all wisdom teeth become infected. However, because of their location at the back of the mouth and the difficulty in cleaning them properly, they are more susceptible to infection compared to other teeth.
Can I treat an infected wisdom tooth at home?
While home remedies such as rinsing with salt water or applying a warm compress may provide temporary relief, it is important to seek professional dental care to properly treat an infected wisdom tooth.
Is it necessary to remove infected wisdom teeth?
In some cases, removing the infected wisdom tooth may be necessary to prevent the infection from spreading or recurring. Your dentist will assess the situation and recommend the best course of action.
Can antibiotics help with infected wisdom teeth?
Antibiotics may be prescribed to help treat an infected wisdom tooth, especially if the infection is severe. However, they are usually used in conjunction with other treatments such as drainage or tooth extraction.
How long does it take for an infected wisdom tooth to heal?
The healing time for an infected wisdom tooth can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the treatment provided. It is important to follow your dentist’s instructions and attend follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while wisdom teeth do have the potential to become infected when they are coming in, it is not a guaranteed outcome for everyone. There are several factors that can contribute to the likelihood of infection, such as lack of space in the mouth, improper alignment, and difficulty in keeping the area clean. It is important to monitor the development of wisdom teeth closely and consult with a dentist if any pain, swelling, or other signs of infection occur during this process.
Additionally, practicing good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash, can help reduce the risk of infection. If wisdom teeth are causing significant issues or are at risk of infection, extraction may be necessary to prevent further complications. Overall, being proactive about monitoring the development of wisdom teeth and seeking prompt treatment if needed can help prevent infections and ensure optimal oral health in the long run.