What Are the Symptoms of an Infected Wisdom Tooth and How to Treat It

A wisdom tooth, also known as the third molar, is the last tooth to erupt in the back of the mouth. In some cases, a wisdom tooth can become infected, causing a range of symptoms that can be quite uncomfortable and painful.

One of the most common symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth is swelling around the affected area. This swelling is caused by inflammation and can make it difficult to open your mouth or chew properly. It can also cause pain and discomfort, as well as difficulty in swallowing.

In addition to swelling, other symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth can include redness and inflammation of the gums surrounding the tooth. This inflammation can cause the gums to become tender and painful to touch. In severe cases, an abscess can form, which is a pocket of pus that can cause intense pain and discomfort.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. They will be able to examine your tooth and determine if it is infected. In some cases, the infected wisdom tooth may require surgery to remove it and prevent further complications.

Persistent pain in the mouth

Persistent pain in the mouth is one of the most common symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth. When a wisdom tooth becomes infected, it can cause inflammation and swelling in the surrounding tissues, leading to pain and discomfort.

The pain associated with an infected wisdom tooth can range from mild to severe and may be constant or intermittent. It can also radiate to other areas of the mouth, jaw, and face.

If you are experiencing persistent pain in your mouth, it is important to see a dentist or oral surgeon as soon as possible. They will be able to diagnose the cause of your pain and determine if it is related to an infected wisdom tooth.

Causes of persistent pain

The persistent pain in your mouth may be caused by an abscess near the infected wisdom tooth. An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms as a result of the infection. The pressure from the abscess can cause intense pain and discomfort.

In some cases, the pain may be caused by the growth of the wisdom tooth itself. When a wisdom tooth does not have enough space to fully erupt, it can become impacted, leading to pain and inflammation.

Treatment options

If you have persistent pain in your mouth due to an infected wisdom tooth, your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend surgical removal of the tooth. This procedure, known as wisdom tooth extraction, can help alleviate the pain and prevent further complications.

In some cases, your dentist may also recommend antibiotics to help fight the infection and reduce swelling. However, antibiotics alone are not a permanent solution and will not address the underlying cause of the pain.

It is important to follow your dentist’s or oral surgeon’s instructions for post-surgical care to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.

• Take all prescribed medications as directed
• Follow a soft food diet for the first few days after surgery
• Avoid using a straw or drinking carbonated beverages
• Maintain good oral hygiene by gently brushing and flossing
• Avoid smoking or using tobacco products, as they can delay healing

If you are experiencing persistent pain in your mouth, it is important to seek professional dental care. Ignoring the pain or delaying treatment can lead to further complications and potentially more invasive procedures.

Swelling in the jaw or cheeks

A common symptom of an infected wisdom tooth is swelling in the jaw or cheeks. This swelling is usually caused by inflammation and can be quite painful. When a wisdom tooth becomes infected, it can lead to the formation of an abscess, which is a pocket of pus that forms around the infected tooth.

If you have an infected wisdom tooth, you may notice that the swelling in your jaw or cheeks is accompanied by severe pain. This pain may radiate from the infected tooth to other parts of your face and head. In some cases, the swelling and pain can become so severe that it affects your ability to eat, speak, or even open your mouth fully.

In order to treat an infected wisdom tooth, your dentist may recommend surgery to remove the tooth. This procedure, known as a wisdom tooth extraction, involves removing the infected tooth and any surrounding tissue. Your dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to help clear up the infection and reduce swelling.

The best way to prevent an infected wisdom tooth is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups. It’s also important to avoid smoking and to avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods, as this can increase the risk of a wisdom tooth becoming infected.

Inflammation	Swelling	Pain	Abscess	Wisdom
infection	infection	severe	pus	tooth
swollen	painful	radiate	infected	extraction
treatment	reduce	antibiotics	oral hygiene	smoking

Bleeding or tender gums

One of the symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth is bleeding or tender gums. When a wisdom tooth becomes infected, it can cause inflammation and irritation in the surrounding gum tissue. This can result in bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing. The infected tooth may also cause tenderness or discomfort in the gums, making it painful to eat or touch the area.

In some cases, an infected wisdom tooth can develop an abscess, which is a pocket of pus that forms at the root of the tooth. This can further contribute to bleeding and tenderness in the gums. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a dentist or oral surgeon for evaluation and treatment.

Difficulty opening the mouth fully

When a wisdom tooth becomes infected or develops an abscess, it can cause inflammation and swelling in the surrounding area. This can result in difficulty opening the mouth fully.

The swelling and inflammation can make it painful or uncomfortable to open the mouth wide, especially if the infected wisdom tooth is located towards the back of the mouth.

Other symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth may include:

• Severe toothache
• Tender or swollen gums
• Bad breath or a foul taste in the mouth
• Jaw pain or stiffness
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a dentist or oral surgeon for an evaluation. They may recommend treatment options such as antibiotics to control the infection, or surgery to remove the infected wisdom tooth.

Bad breath or a foul taste in the mouth

One of the symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth is bad breath or a foul taste in the mouth. This can occur due to the presence of bacteria in the mouth, which can cause an unpleasant odor or taste. When a wisdom tooth is infected, it can lead to swelling and inflammation in the surrounding gums, creating an ideal environment for bacterial growth.

In some cases, an infected wisdom tooth can also result in an abscess, which is a pocket of pus that forms around the tooth. This can further contribute to bad breath and a foul taste in the mouth. The pus-filled abscess can release an unpleasant odor, leading to halitosis or bad breath.

In order to treat an infected wisdom tooth and alleviate these symptoms, a dental professional may recommend surgery to remove the tooth. This procedure, known as a wisdom tooth extraction, can help to eliminate the source of infection and alleviate pain and discomfort.

If you are experiencing bad breath or a foul taste in your mouth, along with other symptoms such as swelling, pain, or inflammation in the area of your wisdom tooth, it is important to consult with a dentist. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend the appropriate treatment to address the infected wisdom tooth.

Symptoms:	Swelling, pain, inflammation
Condition:	Infected Wisdom Tooth
Treatment:	Wisdom tooth extraction surgery

Pain or tenderness in the surrounding teeth

One of the symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth is pain or tenderness in the surrounding teeth. When the wisdom tooth becomes infected or impacted, it can cause inflammation and swelling in the surrounding tissues. This inflammation can lead to pressure on the neighboring teeth, resulting in pain or tenderness.

In some cases, an infected wisdom tooth can develop an abscess, which is a collection of pus caused by a bacterial infection. The abscess may cause intense pain and can spread to the surrounding teeth, causing pain and discomfort.

If you are experiencing pain or tenderness in the teeth near your wisdom tooth, it is important to seek dental attention. Your dentist may recommend surgical removal of the infected wisdom tooth to alleviate the symptoms and prevent further complications.

Pain or tenderness in the surrounding teeth
– Inflammation and swelling in the surrounding tissues
– Pressure on the neighboring teeth
– Development of an abscess
– Intense pain

Redness or swelling around the infected tooth

One of the common symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth is the presence of redness or swelling around the affected tooth. This inflammation is typically caused by the formation of an abscess, which is a pocket of pus that forms in response to the infection.

The abscess can lead to increased pressure in the area, resulting in pain and discomfort. The swelling may be visible on the gum tissue surrounding the tooth, and it can also extend to the surrounding areas of the face and neck.

If you notice any redness or swelling around your wisdom tooth, it is important to seek dental attention as soon as possible. Your dentist may recommend a course of antibiotics to help control the infection, but in some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected tooth.

Other symptoms that may accompany redness or swelling around an infected wisdom tooth include:

• Severe toothache or throbbing pain
• Pain or difficulty when chewing or biting down
• Bad taste or odor in the mouth
• Inflamed or tender lymph nodes in the neck
• Fever and general feeling of illness

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with a dental professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. They will be able to assess the condition of your wisdom tooth and recommend the appropriate course of action to alleviate your symptoms and prevent further complications.

Elevated body temperature

An infected wisdom tooth can lead to the development of a dental abscess, which is a pocket of pus caused by bacterial infection. When the tooth is infected, the body’s natural response is to fight the infection by increasing its temperature. This elevation in body temperature is one of the symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth.

The inflammation and infection around the tooth can cause pain and swelling in the surrounding area. The body’s immune system releases inflammatory mediators to help combat the infection, which can result in an elevated body temperature.

If you experience an elevated body temperature along with other symptoms such as pain, swelling, and difficulty opening your mouth, it is important to seek dental care promptly. A dentist may recommend a tooth extraction, oral antibiotics, or dental surgery to address the infection and prevent further complications.

In some cases, severe infections may require immediate medical attention and hospitalization. It is important to monitor your body temperature and seek professional medical advice if you have an infected wisdom tooth and experience fever or other signs of systemic involvement.

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck can be a symptom of an infected wisdom tooth. When a wisdom tooth becomes infected, the bacteria can spread to the surrounding tissues, causing inflammation and swelling. This can lead to the development of an abscess, which is a pocket of pus that forms around the infected tooth.

When an abscess forms, the body’s immune system is triggered, causing the nearby lymph nodes to swell. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures that play a key role in the body’s immune response. They help filter out harmful substances and produce white blood cells that fight infection.

The swelling of lymph nodes in the neck can be a sign that the body is trying to fight off the infection caused by the infected tooth. This swelling can be painful and may make it difficult to turn the head or move the neck comfortably. Other symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth may include pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the region of the affected tooth.

If you have an infected wisdom tooth and are experiencing swollen lymph nodes in the neck, it is important to seek prompt dental treatment. Your dentist can evaluate the extent of the infection and recommend appropriate treatment, such as antibiotics or wisdom tooth extraction, to alleviate your symptoms and prevent further complications.

Difficulty chewing or biting

If you have an infected wisdom tooth, you may experience difficulty chewing or biting. The swelling and inflammation caused by the infection can make it painful to apply pressure on the affected tooth. As a result, you may find it challenging to eat certain foods, especially those that require vigorous chewing.

An abscess, which is a pocket of pus, can develop near the infected tooth and further contribute to the difficulty in chewing or biting. The abscess may cause additional pain and discomfort when trying to use the affected tooth for chewing.

It is important to note that difficulty chewing or biting is one of the common symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth. Other symptoms may include pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the affected area. In some cases, the infection may also cause a foul taste or odor in the mouth.

If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is advisable to see a dentist or oral surgeon as soon as possible. They can evaluate your condition and determine the best course of treatment, which may involve antibiotics to fight the infection and alleviate the symptoms. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected wisdom tooth and prevent further complications.

swelling	abscess	symptoms
infected	inflammation	surgery
wisdom	tooth

Ear pain or headache

Ear pain or headache can be common symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth. When the wisdom tooth becomes infected, it can cause inflammation and swelling in the surrounding tissues, including the jaw and ear. The pain can radiate from the infected tooth to the ear, leading to ear pain. Additionally, the inflammation and swelling can put pressure on the surrounding nerves, causing headaches.

If you are experiencing ear pain or headache along with other symptoms such as tooth pain, facial swelling, or difficulty opening your mouth, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. The dentist may recommend an x-ray to determine the exact cause of the symptoms. In some cases, the infected wisdom tooth may need to be extracted through surgery to alleviate the pain and prevent further complications.

In severe cases, an infected wisdom tooth can develop an abscess, which is a pocket of pus. This can cause intense pain and swelling in the jaw, face, and neck, and may even lead to more serious complications if left untreated. It is important to seek prompt dental care if you suspect an infected wisdom tooth to prevent the infection from spreading or causing more severe symptoms.

Difficulty speaking or swallowing

One of the symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth can be difficulty speaking or swallowing. When the wisdom tooth is infected, it can cause pain, swelling, and inflammation in the surrounding area.

This can make it difficult to move the mouth and tongue properly, leading to difficulty in speaking or swallowing. The pain and inflammation can make it uncomfortable to open and close the mouth, making it challenging to eat or drink.

If you experience difficulty speaking or swallowing, it is important to seek dental attention as soon as possible. A dentist can evaluate the wisdom tooth and determine if it needs to be removed through surgery to alleviate the infection and associated symptoms.

Swelling of the face or neck

Inflammation and pain in the wisdom tooth can lead to swelling of the face or neck. This swelling is often a visible symptom of an infected wisdom tooth. When the tooth becomes infected, bacteria can spread to the surrounding tissues, causing inflammation and the formation of an abscess.

The swelling may be localized to the area around the infected tooth or it can spread to the cheeks, jaw, and neck. It can cause discomfort and can make it difficult to open the mouth fully or chew properly. The severity of the swelling can vary depending on the extent of the infection and individual factors.

If left untreated, the infection can worsen and lead to more serious complications. It is important to seek dental treatment if you experience swelling of the face or neck along with other symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth such as pain, inflammation, or difficulty in opening the mouth.

Possible Symptoms of an Infected Wisdom Tooth
Pain
Inflammation
Swelling of the face or neck
Difficulty in opening the mouth
Bad taste in the mouth
Foul breath
Earache
Headache
Swollen lymph nodes

Once diagnosed, the treatment for an infected wisdom tooth may involve antibiotics to help control the infection, and in most cases, surgical removal of the tooth. This can help alleviate the symptoms and prevent the infection from spreading further. It is important to consult with a dentist if you suspect that you have an infected wisdom tooth to receive appropriate treatment.

Pus or drainage from the infected area

If you have an infected wisdom tooth, you may notice pus or drainage coming from the affected area. This can be a sign of an abscess, which is a pocket of infection that forms at the root of the tooth. The pus or drainage may have a foul smell and can be yellow or white in color.

When a wisdom tooth is infected, it can cause swelling and inflammation in the surrounding tissues. This can lead to the formation of an abscess, which may require treatment such as antibiotics or dental surgery to remove the infected tooth.

It is important to see a dentist if you notice pus or drainage from your wisdom tooth, as this is a clear sign of infection. Ignoring the symptoms can lead to further complications and increased pain.

Common symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth include:

• Severe pain or discomfort
• Swelling of the gums or face
• Difficulty opening the mouth
• Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
• Tender or bleeding gums
• Fever

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek prompt dental care. Your dentist will be able to assess the situation and recommend the appropriate treatment for your infected wisdom tooth.

Sensitive or loose tooth

A common symptom of an infected wisdom tooth is a sensitive or loose tooth. When the wisdom tooth becomes infected, it can lead to inflammation and swelling around the affected area.

This inflammation can cause the nearby tooth to become sensitive to touch or pressure, and it may even become loose in its socket. The infected wisdom tooth can also cause pain in the surrounding area.

If left untreated, an infected wisdom tooth can develop an abscess, which is a pus-filled pocket that forms around the infected area. This can further aggravate the symptoms and lead to severe pain and discomfort.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a dentist to determine the cause and appropriate treatment for your infected wisdom tooth.

Cracked or broken tooth

A cracked or broken tooth can be a painful and distressing dental issue that may require immediate attention and treatment. This condition can also occur in wisdom teeth, causing additional discomfort and complications.

When a tooth is cracked or broken, it can expose the inner layers of the tooth, including the pulp and nerves, leaving them vulnerable to infection. If bacteria enter the tooth through the crack or break, it can lead to an infected tooth or an abscess.

Symptoms

There are several common symptoms associated with a cracked or broken tooth:

• Pain: The tooth may be sensitive to pressure, heat, or cold, causing pain that can range from mild to severe.
• Swelling: There may be swelling in the affected area, indicating an inflammatory response to the injury.
• Tooth sensitivity: The tooth may become sensitive to sweet or acidic foods, causing discomfort.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek dental care as soon as possible. A dentist can assess the extent of the crack or break and determine the appropriate treatment, which may include a dental crown, root canal therapy, or extraction.

Note: In the case of a cracked or broken wisdom tooth, extraction is often the recommended course of action, particularly if the tooth is impacted or causing significant pain or infection.

Remember, prompt treatment can help alleviate pain and prevent further complications associated with a cracked or broken tooth.

Changes in the alignment of nearby teeth

Inflammation and infection of a wisdom tooth can cause changes in the alignment of nearby teeth. When a wisdom tooth becomes infected, it can lead to inflammation in the surrounding tissues and bone. This inflammation can cause the nearby teeth to shift or become misaligned.

Surgery may be needed to remove the infected wisdom tooth and alleviate the inflammation. If left untreated, the infection can worsen and develop into an abscess. The pressure from the abscess can cause the nearby teeth to move, leading to changes in their alignment.

Some common symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth include pain and swelling in the area. The pain may be localized to the wisdom tooth itself or radiate to the surrounding teeth and jaw. As a result of the pain and swelling, the nearby teeth may shift or become crooked.

If you notice any changes in the alignment of your nearby teeth, it is important to seek dental attention as soon as possible. An infected wisdom tooth should be treated promptly to prevent further complications and restore the proper alignment of your teeth.

In conclusion, an infected wisdom tooth can lead to changes in the alignment of nearby teeth. These changes can occur due to inflammation, the development of an abscess, and the resulting pressure on the surrounding teeth. If you experience symptoms such as pain or swelling, it is important to consult with a dentist to address the issue and prevent further complications.

Q&A:

What are the symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth?

The symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth may include persistent pain, swelling, redness, bad breath, a foul taste in the mouth, difficulty opening your mouth, and swollen lymph nodes.

Can an infected wisdom tooth cause ear pain?

Yes, an infected wisdom tooth can cause referred pain to the ear. If the infection spreads, it can cause ear pain along with other symptoms such as swelling and difficulty opening your mouth.

What should I do if I suspect I have an infected wisdom tooth?

If you suspect you have an infected wisdom tooth, it is important to see a dentist or oral surgeon as soon as possible. They will be able to assess the situation, provide a proper diagnosis, and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics, a dental extraction, or other procedures.

What are the complications of an infected wisdom tooth?

If left untreated, an infected wisdom tooth can lead to various complications. These may include the formation of an abscess, which is a pocket of pus, the spread of infection to surrounding teeth and bone, sinus problems, and in rare cases, even systemic infections that can be life-threatening.

How long does it take for an infected wisdom tooth to heal?

The healing time for an infected wisdom tooth can vary depending on the severity of the infection and the treatment received. In some cases, it may take a few days to a week for the initial symptoms to improve, but complete healing can take several weeks or even months, especially if a dental extraction or surgery is required.

What are the symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth?

The symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth include pain, swelling, redness around the affected area, bad breath, an unpleasant taste in the mouth, difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing, and swollen lymph nodes.