What is tooth Pericoronitis?

Pericoronitis is swelling and infection of the gum tissue around the wisdom teeth, the third and final set of molars that usually appear in your late teens or early 20s.

Will pericoronitis go away on its own?

Unfortunately, pericoronitis won't go away on its own. If it goes untreated, it can become dangerous after only a couple of weeks. Typically, either the flap of tissue or the wisdom tooth needs to be removed. If an infection is present, an antibiotic will be needed, as well.

What is the fastest way to cure pericoronitis?

What does pericoronitis look like?

The dentist will diagnose the condition by examining the wisdom teeth and checking for signs and the appearance of pericoronitis. The dentist will look to see if the gums are inflamed, red, swollen, or draining pus. They will also look to see if there is a gum flap in the affected area.

Is pericoronitis serious?

When pericoronitis is acute, it happens once after an unusual circumstance like when you neglect to clean the tooth properly. Acute infections can become serious, causing fevers, swelling, discomfort, pain, or an infection that can eventually go to your blood (sepsis).

Pericoronitis Treatment | Causes

How long does pericoronitis last?

Generally, pericoronitis resolves between one and three weeks. However, it can reoccur if you leave the original cause untreated.

Does salt water Cure pericoronitis?

The most conservative treatment option is to use a salt water rinse to clean the infected area, flushing out any bacteria and any food pieces that might be trapped in the gum. To reduce the chance of the infection recurring, a dentist might decide to remove the piece of gum that is causing part of the trouble.

How do dentists treat pericoronitis?

How is pericoronitis treated? First, your dentist will flush away the accumulated food particles and other debris from the area. Then, he or she will prescribe a course of oral antibiotics to clear up the infection. He or she will also recommend an antibacterial oral rinse that you can use to clear the infected area.

How can I treat pericoronitis at home?

If a wisdom tooth has pericoronitis or another type of abscess, a saltwater rinse can help clean the infected area until the source is treated. Dissolve a small amount of salt in warm water and swish for 30 seconds one to two times per day.

How do I know if my pericoronitis is infected?

Can pericoronitis spread?

If an abscess ruptures and isn't treated, the infection can spread to other areas of your body and even be life-threatening. Severe pericoronitis can cause complications like Ludwig's angina, an infection that can spread to the rest of your head and neck.

How can I stop pericoronitis pain?

Typical pericoronitis treatment involves the removal of wisdom teeth. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics if complications prevent the teeth from being taken out immediately. As the IJDMR review explains, your dentist may also recommend removal of the pericoronal flap to help prevent infection in the area.

Does pericoronitis need antibiotics?

Antibiotics are only required in the case of spreading infection (cellulitis, lymph node involvement, trismus) or systemic involvement (fever and malaise). Pericoronitis is usually caused by oral gram positive or anaerobic organisms. Metronidazole or amoxicillin are usually effective in treating such infections.

Is mouthwash good for pericoronitis?

What About Mouthwash for Pericoronitis? Mouthwash can be a useful tool in a pericoronitis treatment plan. Simple saltwater rinse can help reduce mild inflammation and is safe to use while you are waiting to see your dentist.

Can you kiss with pericoronitis?

The bacteria that cause gum disease can be transmitted from person to person by kissing. They also can be transmitted by things like sharing a drink, a piece of food, or even an eating utensil.

How long does it take for pericoronitis?

Mild pericoronitis can heal in a few days or weeks with the proper pericoronitis antibiotics. Severe pericoronitis may heal in several weeks or months to heal with proper dental surgeries. Severe pericoronitis healing may take several months if you only use antibiotic treatments without surgery.

What can you eat with pericoronitis?

Why is my gum swollen around one tooth in the back?

When gums swell around a single tooth in this way, it usually indicates an infection. This is called an abscessed tooth, and it can be very painful. If left untreated, it is possible for the infection to spread, leading to more serious dental problems.

Can pericoronitis cause headache?

Another source of headaches related to wisdom teeth could be due to infection, known as pericoronitis. This happens as a result of an inability to keep the wisdom teeth clean which leads to trapped food particles around the flaps of the gum tissue. You will feel pain in the jaw, head, and neck.

Does pericoronitis cause jaw pain?

Pericoronitis Symptoms

Pain. Swelling in the gum tissue (caused by an accumulation of fluid) Pus discharge. Trismus, or difficulty opening your mouth and jaw, also called lockjaw.

Is pericoronitis a viral infection?

Pericoronitis is caused by an accumulation of bacteria and debris beneath the operculum, or by mechanical trauma (e.g. biting the operculum with the opposing tooth).

Can I get my wisdom teeth removed with pericoronitis?

For patients with pericoronitis, oral surgery is the best option. It is both a treatment and a preventative. An oral surgeon can remove the gum flap from the back of the mouth to prevent food and bacteria from getting lodged in it. Another option is to have the wisdom teeth removed entirely.

Is it OK to rinse with salt water every day?

Saltwater is acidic, and gaggling it every day can soften the teeth enamel and gums. Therefore, you can't gargle salty water daily Also, people with special medical conditions such as those with high blood pressure should take extra precaution or simply look for other alternatives they can use.

Is wisdom tooth removal painful?

So, wisdom tooth removal does it hurt? During the procedure, you should feel no pain and barely any (if at all) discomfort. After the procedure, the extraction site may feel a little tender for several days but with a little rest and recuperation, you should be back to normal within 7 days.

Why is my gum sore at the back of my mouth?

Sometimes tender and sore gums are simply a sign that you brush your teeth too hard. Other times your gums might hurt if they're irritated from braces or dentures. If you're a woman, hormone changes related to your period, pregnancy, or menopause can also cause your gums to become swollen and painful.