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Pericoronitis is a painful condition caused by impacted or emerging wisdom teeth that create an opening in the gum tissue, allowing bacteria to cause infection. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty speaking and swallowing. Treatment may include antibiotics, pain medication, or removal of the wisdom teeth. Recovery time is typically one to two weeks.
Pericoronitis is a medical condition that occurs when a person’s wisdom teeth become impacted or begin to protrude through the gums. A tooth that begins to emerge creates an opening or small flap in the gum tissue, which often becomes irritated. Bacteria can get caught in the opening and cause a serious infection. Many people experience pain and swelling in and around the mouth, which can make swallowing and speaking difficult. Dentists may clean the infected area, prescribe pain medication or antibiotics, or suggest patients see an oral surgeon to have their wisdom teeth removed.
People usually get wisdom teeth in their late teens or early twenties. In many cases, the teeth grow crookedly or put strain on the other molars in the back of the mouth, causing significant discomfort. Wisdom teeth that are starting to emerge properly can also be painful, as they have to break through sensitive gum tissue. In the case of pericoronitis, open gum tissue becomes infected due to bits of food, plaque, or other bacteria becoming trapped in the cavity created by a tooth.
Symptoms of pericoronitis include pain in the mouth and jaw and swelling in the infected area, tongue and throat. Many people have difficulty opening their mouths, chewing and swallowing food, and speaking. A person experiencing symptoms of pericoronitis should immediately seek the guidance of a licensed dentist to form a proper diagnosis and properly treat the condition.
A dentist will usually conduct a physical exam and take x-rays to determine the severity of pericoronitis. When a person’s wisdom teeth grow in properly, the dentist might prescribe an antibiotic or pain reliever and thoroughly clean the infected gum tissue. In cases where your wisdom teeth are impacted or putting strain on other teeth, your dentist might refer you to an oral surgeon who can remove the problem teeth before they create more serious problems. The surgical procedure is fairly routine, and most surgeons can successfully cut out your wisdom teeth and infected tissue in just one appointment.
After a procedure, pain from infection and pressure on other teeth is relieved immediately. The surgeon usually stitches up the gum tissue and prescribes an antibiotic to prevent future infections. He or she may suggest a temporary diet of soft foods and liquids until the patient’s mouth has time to recover. Healing time after surgery for pericoronitis varies, but most people are able to make a full recovery in one to two weeks.
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