Important Information About Extracting Infected Wisdom Teeth

If you are like the majority of people, you will have to have your wisdom teeth removed because your jaw is not big enough to support them. They typically come in between the ages of 17 and 25, and most dentists will remove them before they have the opportunity to fully develop within the jaws. Unfortunately, if you do not have them removed as a young adult, you are at a higher risk of infection and other complications.

Understand The Dental Infection

If you have an infected wisdom tooth, it probably started when the wisdom tooth was only able to partially break through the gum. When the nearby teeth prevented it from appearing, the gum line was damaged. Therefore, it became easier for bacteria to become trapped in the affected gum tissue. Although the problem is usually referred to as an infected wisdom tooth, the infected gum is the more common concern.  

When the infection begins, it will be painful to open your mouth, eat, drink or smoke. As it continues, your face and gums could swell. It is important to note that if you suspect an infection, you should see your dentist as soon as possible. An infection of this type could worsen very quickly and severe infections can result in brain damage or even death.   

How Will The Infection Impact The Extraction?

The severity of the infection and the measures that have already been taken to treat your infected wisdom tooth will affect the treatment you get for it. For example, most dentists and oral surgeons prefer to treat an infected wisdom tooth with antibiotics before removing it. You may also be advised to take additional antibiotics after the surgery, in order to prevent the infection from spreading and minimize complications. 

In addition, if you have already taken antibiotics and the infection has returned or is still present, immediate extraction is usually the best plan. In addition to antibiotics after the procedure, plan to avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, and consume a diet of soft foods during your recovery.

Over-the-counter and prescription medications may be necessary for pain management, and you will receive at least local anesthesia during the extraction. Due to the infection, your extraction may take longer and your pain may be more significant. If your fever returns, or if your pain does not diminish, return to the dentist. 

In conclusion, if you are an adult and have infected wisdom teeth, it is important to allow for extra time for the wisdom teeth extraction. Because the procedure is more complicated when you have an infection, getting rid of the infection and establishing an after-care plan is even more important than it would be for younger adults