Infected Impacted Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What You Need to Know
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to emerge in the mouth and are usually the most difficult to remove. When an impacted wisdom tooth is infected, it can be even more challenging to extract. An impacted wisdom tooth is trapped beneath the gum line or lodged against other teeth, making removing it difficult. An infected, impacted wisdom tooth extraction requires extra care and attention to ensure the area is completely cleared of infection.
Signs and Symptoms of an Infected Impacted Wisdom Tooth
When an impacted wisdom tooth becomes infected, it can cause various symptoms. These symptoms can include pain, swelling, redness, and bad breath. The area around the wisdom tooth may also be tender to the touch. If the infection is left untreated, it can spread to other parts of the mouth and cause serious health complications.
Diagnosing an Infected Impacted Wisdom Tooth
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, seeing your dentist as soon as possible is important. Your dentist will be able to diagnose an infected impacted wisdom tooth by taking X-rays and examining the area. This will help them determine the best course of action for the extraction.
Treatment Options for an Infected Impacted Wisdom Tooth
Once an infected, impacted wisdom tooth has been diagnosed, your dentist will discuss treatment options with you. The most common treatment for an infected, impacted wisdom tooth is extraction. Depending on the severity of the infection, your dentist may recommend antibiotics to help reduce the infection before the extraction is performed.
Preparing for An Infected Impacted Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Before an infected, impacted wisdom tooth extraction, your dentist may recommend that you take certain steps to ensure a smooth procedure. These steps include:
-Avoid eating or drinking anything for at least eight hours before the procedure.
-Brushing your teeth and using a fluoride rinse before the procedure.
-Taking any prescribed medications as directed by your dentist.
-Arriving at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
The Procedure for An Infected Impacted Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Your dentist will use special tools to remove the impacted wisdom tooth during the procedure. Depending on the severity of the infection, your dentist may need to use a local anesthetic to help manage any discomfort. Your dentist may also need to remove some surrounding gum tissue to get to the tooth. Once the tooth is removed, your dentist will clean the area to remove all infections.
Recovery from an Infected Impacted Wisdom Tooth Extraction
After the extraction, your dentist will provide instructions on how to care for the area. It is important to follow these instructions to help ensure a quick and successful recovery. Recovery time varies depending on the individual, but it is important to take pain medication as directed and to avoid eating hard or chewy foods until the area is healed.
Conclusion
An infected wisdom tooth extraction is a complex procedure requiring extra care and attention. It is important to know the signs and symptoms of an infected, impacted wisdom tooth and seek treatment as soon as possible. Your dentist can diagnose the infection and provide the best treatment options for your needs. With proper care and preparation, you can ensure a successful recovery from an infected, impacted wisdom tooth extraction.
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.