How Do You Know If Wisdom Tooth Extraction Is Infected?
Wisdom tooth extraction is important to remove an impacted or partially erupted tooth. It is usually done to avoid further pain and complications arising from the wisdom tooth’s presence. However, there is always a risk of infection associated with this procedure. This article will discuss the signs and symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth extraction so that you can take the necessary steps to treat it.
Signs Of An Infected Wisdom Tooth Extraction
The most common signs of an infected wisdom tooth extraction include the following:
- Pain in the area of the extraction.
- Swelling in the area of the extraction.
- Redness in the area of the extraction.
- Fever.
- Bad breath.
- A foul taste in the mouth.
- Lymph node swelling near the extraction site.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult your dentist or oral surgeon as soon as possible.
Causes Of An Infected Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Wisdom tooth extractions can become infected due to various reasons. Some of the most common causes of an infected wisdom tooth extraction include:
- Poor oral hygiene.
- Untreated tooth decay.
- Inadequate healing of the wound.
- Trauma to the extraction site.
- Infection of the surrounding tissue.
- Bacterial infection.
Keeping your teeth and gums clean and healthy is important to prevent infection.
Treatment For An Infected Wisdom Tooth Extraction
The treatment for an infected wisdom tooth extraction depends on the severity of the infection. Your dentist or oral surgeon may prescribe antibiotics to fight off the infection. You may also be instructed to use a medicated rinse or mouthwash to reduce the inflammation. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected tissue.
Prevention Of An Infected Wisdom Tooth Extraction
The best way to prevent an infected wisdom tooth extraction is to practice good oral hygiene and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the abovementioned symptoms. Additionally, it is important to follow the instructions given by your dentist or oral surgeon regarding the post-operative care of the extraction site. This includes avoiding activities that can strain the area and avoiding contact with saliva or food particles.
Conclusion
Wisdom tooth extraction is important to remove an impacted or partially erupted tooth. However, there is always a risk of infection associated with the procedure. If you experience any signs and symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth extraction, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. To prevent an infected wisdom tooth extraction, practice good oral hygiene and follow the instructions given by your dentist or oral surgeon for post-operative care.
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.