Reviewed By Dr. Jeffery Kesecker, DDS
Reading Time: 2 minutes
Wisdom teeth sit at the very back of the mouth, and their position makes them prone to irritation and bacterial buildup. When the gums around them become inflamed or difficult to clean, an infection can develop quickly. Early discomfort, such as soreness near the jaw or sensitivity in the gums, often signals that something is starting to go wrong.
Legacy Surgery provides wisdom tooth removal in Harrisonburg and Staunton, VA.
Table of Contents
Why Wisdom Teeth Get Infected
Wisdom teeth usually erupt between ages 17 and 25. By this time, the jaw has stopped growing, and many people do not have enough room for proper eruption. When a tooth becomes impacted or erupts at an angle, bacteria collect under the gum tissue and lead to gum infections.
Common causes of infection include:
- Partial eruption that leaves an opening in the gum, allowing bacteria to collect.
- Food and debris collecting around the back molars, especially when the tooth is angled or impacted.
- Inflammation around the wisdom tooth, which irritates the surrounding gum tissue.
- Bacterial buildup under the gum flap, where brushing and flossing cannot reach effectively.
Symptoms of an Infected Wisdom Tooth
An infected wisdom tooth often progresses quickly, and multiple symptoms can appear at the same time.
These are the most common signs:
- Deep, persistent pain that radiates through the jaw or becomes sharper when you chew.
- Red, swollen, or tender gums around the back molars.
- A bad taste or persistent bad breath caused by bacteria or fluid beneath the gum.
- Tightness or difficulty opening your mouth due to inflammation in the jaw muscles.
- Noticeable swelling in the cheek or jaw, sometimes extending toward the neck.
- Fever, tiredness, or general malaise as your body reacts to the infection.
- Visible drainage of pus from the gum near the wisdom tooth.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to contact an oral surgeon promptly for evaluation and treatment.
Common Complications Linked to Impacted Wisdom Teeth
When a wisdom tooth cannot fully erupt, it becomes impacted. Impacted teeth sit deep in the jaw or remain partially covered by gum tissue, which makes them difficult to clean and more prone to infection. Over time, this can lead to additional dental problems beyond the initial infection.
Complications may include:
- Pericoronitis: A painful gum infection that develops when bacteria accumulate under the gum flap covering a partially erupted tooth.
- Damage to the second molar: Pressure from the impacted tooth can wear down or weaken the nearby molar.
- Cavities and tooth decay: Bacteria and food debris collect in areas that are hard to reach, increasing the risk of decay on both the wisdom tooth and the second molar.
- Cysts or fluid-filled sacs: These can form around impacted teeth and may damage bone or surrounding structures if left untreated.
- Gum disease: Chronic inflammation around the third molars can contribute to periodontal problems in the back of the mouth.
- Structural bone loss: Ongoing infection or cyst formation can erode the jawbone around the tooth.
- Spread of infection: Untreated infections can extend into the jaw, throat, or neck, creating more serious health concerns.
These risks are why oral surgeons often recommend removing wisdom teeth before they begin causing complications.
What To Do If You Suspect a Wisdom Tooth Infection
If you notice swelling, discomfort, or signs of infection, these steps can help manage symptoms while you wait for your appointment:
- Rinse gently with warm saltwater to reduce irritation.
- Keep the area clean by brushing carefully around the back molars.
- Use ice packs on the cheek to reduce swelling.
- Choose soft foods and avoid chewing on the affected side.
- Avoid smoking or using straws, which can worsen irritation.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed to manage discomfort.
These measures do not replace professional treatment, but they can help keep symptoms more stable until you see the oral surgeon.
Wisdom Tooth Removal at Legacy Surgery
Early evaluation helps identify whether wisdom teeth have enough space to erupt or are likely to cause problems. If an infection has already developed, timely removal can protect the surrounding teeth, gums, and bone. Our team provides safe, predictable care and can determine the best treatment approach for your situation.
To book a consultation at our oral surgery office in Staunton, call (540) 213-8750 or visit us at 110 Mactanly Pl C, Staunton, VA.
📍Other location
Legacy Surgery in Harrisonburg, VA
(540) 437-1230
2071 Pro Pointe Lane, Harrisonburg, VA
FAQs
What does an infected wisdom tooth feel like?
It typically feels like a deep, throbbing ache with gum swelling, jaw pain, or a bad taste caused by trapped bacteria.
Can a wisdom tooth infection go away on its own?
An infection will not resolve permanently without treatment. The area continues to collect bacteria, and symptoms often return or become more severe over time.
How long can you wait with an infected wisdom tooth?
It is best to seek care as soon as possible. Infections near the jaw can spread to surrounding tissues, which makes treatment more complex the longer it is delayed.
When should I get my wisdom teeth removed?
Removal may be recommended when a wisdom tooth is causing pain, swelling, infection, or decay, or when X-rays show that it is impacted or positioned in a way that is likely to cause problems in the future. An oral surgeon evaluates spacing, tooth angle, and overall gum and bone health to determine the safest timing for removal.
Who should I see for wisdom tooth removal near me?
Patients in the Shenandoah Valley can see Dr. Jeffery Kesecker at Legacy Surgery in Staunton and Harrisonburg for evaluation and treatment. He will examine your wisdom teeth, review your X-rays, and determine the safest timing for removal.