If you experience pericoronitis, it is likely caused by an infection of the wisdom teeth. This condition is most common in men and women who are teenagers or in their early 20s, as this is the period in which the wisdom teeth are growing in. If you still have questions about the condition but are not sure if you need to speak with your dentist, the answers to these common questions may help you.
Why do I experience pericoronitis?
When your wisdom teeth erupt through the gums, bacteria may enter the gums around the tooth. The result is an infection. This bacteria comes from food and plaque that invades your gums and causes irritation.
What are common symptoms of pericoronitis?
Common symptoms of this condition include pain and swelling of the gums. You may notice that fluid has accumulated under the gums, possibly even leaking at times. You may even taste the pus without realizing what it is. If the condition worsens, you may experience swelling of the lymph nodes and neck. Some patients even report that they struggle to open their mouth and eat.
How will my dentist diagnose pericoronitis?
Typically, your dentist can diagnose the condition easily via visual examination of your wisdom teeth. If the dentist is unsure of whether or not to remove your wisdom teeth, he or she may take X-rays to track their alignment and growth. In most cases, simply viewing the inflammation is enough.
What treatment options are available for pericoronitis?
In some cases, the dentist will recommend simply rinsing your tooth with salt and warm water. The dentist will also ensure that food is not trapped in the area surrounding the tooth, worsening the infection. If the infection has spread to other teeth, the dentist may prescribe an antibiotic and advise that you take an over-the-counter pain reliever like aspirin or ibuprofen.
When should I call my dentist about pericoronitis?
You should always call your dentist if you experience swelling and pain in multiple teeth, your jaw, or your cheek. You may also suffer an infection that reaches the lymph nodes. It is always a good idea to seek your dentist's advice about treating an infection rather than trying to deal with it yourself. Eventually, your dentist may decide to perform oral surgery to remove the flap of gum around the tooth. The process does not have to be painful, especially when performed early on.
Share29 September 2016
Toddlers should see a dentist for the first time by the age of twelve months or by the time their first tooth comes in. But if you are a parent with toddlers anything like mine, the prospect of going to the dentist (let alone anywhere!) can be pretty intimidating. My kids were a handful growing up. They had tantrums any time we would have to sit in a waiting room, and they refused to get in the dentist's chair during their first few visits. So, I had to employ a professional to help me make the transition to finally getting them in that dental chair without all the screaming and crying. I know I'm not the only parent in this situation, so I decided to share the information I've learned with others who can use a little help. You can find all my advice right here on these pages!