A wisdom tooth can harbor a significant amount of bacteria, which may result in tooth infections known as pericoronitis. This condition arises when a tooth only partially erupts, creating a space where bacteria and food particles can accumulate under a flap of gum tissue that is challenging to clean. The buildup of bacteria can trigger an infection, leading to pain and swelling. 

Symptoms of an Infected Wisdom Tooth

1. Painful gums around the infected tooth

2. Swelling in the region of the tooth.

3. Redness, bleeding and tenderness of the gums.

4. Trimus or stiffness difficulty in opening your mouth.

5. Bad breath or a foul taste in your mouth (due to pus).

6. Swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

7. Fever (in severe cases).

Causes

Wisdom tooth infections can arise from a partially erupted tooth that is trapped under the gums, adjacent teeth or bone creating a flap of gum that food and bacteria can enter, acculumate and be trapped. Poor oral hygiene can increase the risk however more often than not the area is not accessible for cleaning with a toothbrush. 

Treatment Options

Seek professional advice from a qualified health professional as wisdom tooth infections can be deadly. If you have trouble opening your mouth, swollening, breathing then go to your nearest emergency hospital department. 

1. Immediate Relief - pain with limited localised swelling:

   • Rinse your mouth with warm salty water (1/2 teaspoon salt in a warm cup of water) to reduce bacteria.

   • pain relief like ibuprofen or acetaminophen (panadol) ensuring that you do not go over maximum doses for a person in a 24 hour period.

   • Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.

2. Professional Treatment- a dentist may:

   • Clean: dentist may clean the infected area.

   • Antibiotics: dentist may prescribe antibiotics. Be sure to tell your dentist any allergies and medications you may be taking.

   • Tooth extraction: If the wisdom tooth is impacted or causing repeated infections, removal is often recommended.

When to See a Dentist?

• If a wisdom tooth causes pain or swelling, seek professional advice from a qualified health professional as a wisdom tooth infection can be deadly. If you have trouble opening your mouth, swollening or breathing then go to your nearest emergency hospital department DO NOT wait until a dentist is available.

Prevention

• Oral hygiene (brush and floss regularly).

• Check up and cleans regularly to assess changes in wisdom tooth developement or eruption.

• Elective wisdom tooth removal.

If you suspect an infected wisdom tooth, don't delay seeking professional care. Untreated infections can spread and lead to more serious complications.