How Do I Know If My Wisdom Tooth Extraction Site Is Infected?
Wisdom teeth are the last molars, usually between 17 and 25. They can cause various problems due to their position in the back of the mouth, including crowding, misalignment, and infection. When these issues become too severe, they may require extraction. However, the extraction site can become infected even after a wisdom tooth is removed. So, how do you know if your wisdom tooth extraction site is infected?
Signs and Symptoms of Infection After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
When a wisdom tooth extraction site becomes infected, the signs and symptoms can include the following:
- Pain or tenderness in the extraction site
- Swelling in the area of the extraction
- Redness or discoloration of the extraction site
- Pus or yellow-colored drainage from the extraction site
- Unpleasant taste or odor coming from the extraction site
- Fever
If you experience these symptoms, you should contact your dentist immediately.
What Causes Wisdom Tooth Extraction Site Infection?
Wisdom tooth extraction site infections can occur due to a variety of factors, including:
- Inadequate oral hygiene
- Improper healing of the extraction site
- Injury to the extraction site
- Bacterial infection
How Is an Infection at the Wisdom Tooth Extraction Site Treated?
The treatment for infection at the wisdom tooth extraction site will depend on the type and severity of the infection. In some cases, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. In more severe cases, you may need to drain the area surgically, or the tooth may need to be re-extracted.
FAQs
What are the signs and symptoms of infection after wisdom tooth extraction?
The signs and symptoms of infection after wisdom tooth extraction can include pain or tenderness in the extraction site, swelling in the area, redness or discoloration of the extraction site, pus or yellow-colored drainage from the extraction site, an unpleasant taste or odor coming from the extraction site, and fever.
What causes wisdom tooth extraction site infection?
Wisdom tooth extraction site infections can be caused by inadequate oral hygiene, improper healing of the extraction site, injury to the extraction site, and bacterial infection.
How is an infection at the wisdom tooth extraction site treated?
The treatment for infection at the wisdom tooth extraction site will depend on the type and severity of the infection. In some cases, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. In more severe cases, you may need to drain the area surgically, or the tooth may need to be re-extracted.
Conclusion
Suppose you experience any of the signs and symptoms of infection after wisdom tooth extraction. In that case, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible to receive the appropriate treatment. With prompt and proper treatment, you can help reduce the risk of complications and ensure your mouth remains healthy and infection-free.
DISCLAIMER: The advice offered is intended to be informational only and generic. It does not offer a definitive diagnosis or specific treatment recommendations for your situation. Any advice provided is no substitute for proper evaluation and care by a qualified dentist.