Wisdom Tooth Infection: Symptoms and Treatments
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Infected Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom Teeth Infection Symptoms and Treatments

The wisdom teeth are the last set of adult molars to erupt. While some people grow complete wisdom teeth, they are impacted for most people and cause excruciating dental pain. If your wisdom teeth are impacted, you can visit Thousand Smiles to have our dentist examine the teeth and recommend the right treatment.

Diagnosing the condition

Our dentist may carry out a mouth and teeth exam to determine the cause of the issue. You may also have the following assessments.

  • Examination of your gums and teeth
  • Dental x-rays to identify the wisdom teeth causing pain and check for signs of damage to the bones and teeth
  • Ask questions about your oral health and symptoms

Treating issues affected wisdom teeth

It’s usually difficult to treat impacted wisdom teeth, or if you have a health issue that increases your risk of surgery, the dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon for the necessary treatment.

Managing wisdom teeth without symptoms

Wisdom teeth that don’t cause symptoms are asymptomatic wisdom teeth. Some dentists do not agree on managing asymptomatic wisdom teeth, and there are findings supporting the opposing management strategies.

Highly experienced dentists offering advanced dental treatments at Thousand Smiles.

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Why Is Extracting Asymptomatic Wisdom Teeth Necessary?

Even if the teeth are asymptomatic, meaning they do not cause any noticeable discomfort or pain. Here are a few reasons why extracting asymptomatic wisdom teeth can be necessary:

  • Prevention of Future Problems: Even if your wisdom teeth are not causing any immediate symptoms, they may pose potential future issues. For example, if they are impacted, they can potentially harm the surrounding teeth or cause infections. Moreover, the risk of complications related to wisdom teeth removal tends to increase with age.
  • Difficulty in Cleaning: Due to their location in the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth can be hard to clean effectively. This can make them a magnet for plaque and bacteria, leading to tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
  • Disease: A wisdom tooth may appear asymptomatic but could be diseased or prone to disease. A cyst can form around the new teeth. If left untreated, the cyst can damage bones or roots.
  • Orthodontic Reasons: If you’ve had orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth, emerging wisdom teeth can undo some of this work by causing crowding and shifting of the teeth.

In some cases, dentists prefer to monitor asymptomatic wisdom teeth to see if any complications develop, rather than opting for immediate extraction. This decision is typically made on a case-bycase basis, considering factors like the position of the teeth, the patient’s age, and their overall dental health. Always consult with your dentist to determine the best course of action for your

specific situation. At Thousand Smiles, we’re ready to help you make the best decision regarding your wisdom teeth. Give us a call on 020 8050 0280 to discuss your options.

Why is a conservative strategy for handling wisdom teeth necessary?

  • The risk and cost of the procedure outweigh the expected gain
  • The evidence showing that young adults will have issues later from the affected wisdom teeth is insufficient

Surgical extraction

If you are experiencing pain or other issues from your wisdom teeth, our dentist may suggest surgery to remove them. Wisdom teeth removal is necessary when there are cysts, gum infections or disease, tooth decay or harm to the teeth surrounding the wisdom teeth.

Wisdom teeth removal is a same-day procedure, and you can go home afterwards. The procedure involves:

Anaesthesia

The dentist will administer local anaesthesia to numb your mouth, general anaesthesia for a complete knock-off or sedation anaesthesia to reduce your consciousness.

Tooth extraction

Your dentist will make a tiny incision in your gum to remove any bone that prevents access to the affected wisdom teeth. After removing the wisdom teeth, the dentist will stitch the wound and fill the socket with gauze after removing the bone.

After wisdom teeth removal surgery, some patients experience side effects such as pain and bleeding. Painful dry sockets and infection rarely occur.

How to manage the treatment

Many patients who need a tooth extraction feel anxious and uncomfortable, but not removing the teeth will be dangerous. If you’re feeling uncomfortable, speak with the dentist for ways to manage your pain and anxiety.

Getting ready for your appointment

If you experience symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth and contact your dentist, expect the following questions.

  • What are the symptoms you experience?
  • Do your teeth bleed while cleaning them?
  • What makes your symptoms worse?

You can visit Thousand Smiles today if you have impacted wisdom teeth. We are available when you call 020 8050 0280 or email [email protected] to book an appointment.

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