Wisdom tooth removal is one of the most common procedures performed in dental clinics. However, did you know some people develop an infection after their wisdom teeth are extracted? This complication can turn a simple procedure into a painful experience. The good news is that it can be managed with a few simple steps. So, if you are concerned about dealing with a wisdom teeth infection after removal, keep reading to learn how to identify, treat, and avoid this condition.
What are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars (third molars) that erupt between the ages of 17 to 21. Despite their name, they are not related to wisdom at all; they are called so because of their late eruption.
Since these teeth are the last to erupt, they usually do not get enough space in the arch. As a result, they either cause delayed crowding, remain impacted, or hit the roots of second molars. Positioned at the very back of the mouth, wisdom teeth contribute minimally to chewing, so dentists extract them when they cause trouble.
How Does Wisdom Teeth Infection After Removal Occurs?
After wisdom tooth extraction, the structural integrity of your oral mucosa is compromised. It allows the pathogens to invade and cause infections. There are three leading causes of wisdom teeth infection after removal such as;
Dry Socket:
Also known as alveolar osteitis, it is a painful condition caused by the forceful removal of the blood clot forming at the site of the wound.
Poor Oral Hygiene:
If the food particles go into the wound site, they act as a substrate for the bacteria to act upon. If you do not maintain good oral hygiene after wisdom teeth extraction, bacteria can accumulate at the site and cause infection.
Neglecting Medications:
After the procedure, the dentist recommends antibiotics to keep the bacterial flora in check. However, if you do not complete the course of these medications, you can develop a post-op infection.
Signs of Infection After Wisdom Teeth Removal:
Early detection leads to timely management. After removing wisdom teeth, you should keep an eye out for the signs of infection. Here are some common signs of a wisdom tooth infection:
Pain:
Although some pain at the site of extraction is normal, if it persists even after 2 to 3 days, it can be a sign of a post-op infection.
Pus:
If you see any white discharge coming from the site of extraction, it indicates an infection.
Bad Taste or Odor:
If you see any white discharge coming from the site of extraction, it indicates an infection.
Swelling:
An infection sometimes results in intra or extra-oral swelling.
Limited Mouth Opening:
An infected third molar limits the mouth opening.
Fever:
Although rare, if you experience a fever after wisdom tooth extraction, accompanied by other symptoms, it indicates an infection.
Wisdom Tooth Removal Infection Treatment:
Your dentist will formulate a treatment plan based on the severity of the infection to treat infected gums after wisdom teeth removal. Analgesics and antibiotics are used to treat mild to moderate infections, while surgical debridement is required for severe infections.
Mild Infections:
If the infection is in its initial stages, your dentist will manage it with antibiotics, such as penicillin, amoxicillin, and clindamycin. If you have excessive pain, they may also recommend analgesics, such as acetaminophen, aspirin, and ibuprofen.
Severe Infections:
A severe infection manifests with facial swelling and symptoms that do not subside even after completing the course of medications. If you have swelling at the extraction site, your dentist will drain it to alleviate the pain and discomfort. If the infection persists, they may carry out surgical debridement. This involves cleaning the site with normal saline and applying medication over it.
How to Avoid Wisdom Teeth Infection After Removal:
If you do not follow the post-op instructions of your dentist after any tooth extraction, there is a high chance of infection. To prevent that, you should take extra care. Here are some things to take care of after wisdom teeth removal.
1. Eat Soft Foods:
After extraction, your oral soft tissues are traumatized and irritated. In order to soothe them and prevent wisdom teeth infection after removal, softer foods that require little to no chewing are recommended. After a few hours of getting your wisdom tooth extracted, eat ice cream to lower the inflammation. You may also have other soft foods such as bananas, mashed potatoes, custard, pudding, smoothies, soups, well-boiled vegetables, and well-cooked pasta.
2. Avoid Hard Foods:
Conversely, hard and crunchy foods can hurt your already irritated gums and even dislodge the clot forming at the wound site, delaying healing. Avoid hard and crunchy foods such as candies, nuts, cookies, and chips for at least a week after extraction.
3. Avoid Spitting and Sucking:
Forces applied at the wound site are also responsible for the dislodgement of the clot. Such forces include spitting, sucking, and even brushing near the wound site.
4. Do Salt Water Rinses:
After 24 hours of wisdom teeth extraction, your dentist suggests you do salt water rinses with warm water to soothe the inflamed tissues.
5. Quit Smoking and Alcohol:
If you smoke or consume alcohol, avoid it after wisdom tooth extraction. These activities delay normal healing and interfere with the course of medications you might be taking.
6. Take Medications:
If your dentist has suggested any medications, take them regularly to avoid wisdom teeth infection after removal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wisdom tooth extraction infections are painful complications, but they can be managed with prompt diagnosis and treatment. You can recover smoothly by understanding the signs of infection and following recommended treatment and prevention instructions. If you require wisdom teeth removal, do not hesitate.
Contact us for tooth extraction in Blairstown, NJ. Our experts offer effective tooth extraction services in Newton, NJ, and efficiently manage patients who have developed infections after wisdom teeth removal. So book your appointment now and take your first step towards a pain-free future.
