How To Know If Your Wisdom Tooth Extraction Site Is Infected
An infected wisdom tooth extraction site can cause pain and discomfort. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of an infection so that it can be treated quickly and effectively. In this article, we will discuss how to know if your wisdom tooth extraction site is infected and what steps you can take to treat it.
What Causes an Infection at the Wisdom Tooth Extraction Site?
Bacteria is the primary cause of an infection at the wisdom tooth extraction site. Bacteria can enter the extraction site through the wound or through the saliva of the person undergoing the procedure. Other factors that can increase the risk of infection include poor hygiene and inadequate aftercare.
Signs and Symptoms of an Infection at the Wisdom Tooth Extraction Site
The most common signs and symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth extraction site include the following:
- Pain, swelling, and redness at the extraction site
- Fever
- A foul-smelling discharge from the extraction site
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- Loss of appetite
How to Treat an Infection at the Wisdom Tooth Extraction Site
If you suspect your wisdom tooth extraction site is infected, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is important. Your doctor will most likely prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. Sometimes, the doctor may recommend draining the infected area to help relieve the pain and swelling.
How to Prevent an Infection at the Wisdom Tooth Extraction Site
You can take several steps to reduce your risk of developing an infection at the wisdom tooth extraction site. These include:
- Good oral hygiene – Brush and floss your teeth on a regular basis and avoid eating sugary and sticky foods that can get stuck in the extraction site.
- Keep the extraction site clean – Gently rinse the area with salt water several times daily to help keep it clean.
- Avoid smoking – Smoking can increase your risk of infection and can slow the healing process.
- Take your medications as prescribed – Be sure to take any antibiotics or pain medications your doctor has prescribed.
FAQs
What are the signs of an infection at the wisdom tooth extraction site?
The most common signs and symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth extraction site include pain, swelling, redness, fever, a foul-smelling discharge, difficulty opening your mouth, and loss of appetite.
How can I prevent infection at the wisdom tooth extraction site?
You can reduce your risk of developing an infection at the wisdom tooth extraction site by practicing good oral hygiene, keeping the extraction site clean, avoiding smoking, and taking your medications as prescribed.
What should I do if my wisdom tooth extraction site is infected?
If you suspect your wisdom tooth extraction site is infected, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is important. Your doctor will most likely prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.
Conclusion
An infected wisdom tooth extraction site can cause pain and discomfort. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of an infection so that it can be treated quickly and effectively. If you suspect your wisdom tooth extraction site is infected, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Practicing good oral hygiene, keeping the extraction site clean, avoiding smoking, and taking your medications as prescribed can help reduce your risk of developing an infection.
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.