Causes of Pericoronitis
Pericoronitis is a dental ailment that occurs when the gum tissue around the wisdom teeth, the final set of molars experienced in early adulthood, become infected and swollen. This occurs when there is not enough room in the mouth. Without the necessary room, the wisdom teeth will either partially or fully fail to erupt. Food and plaque will then get caught underneath the gums, causing irritation. If not removed Pericoronitis can occur.
At Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group, Dr. Frederick Shaw, D.D.S. can inspect your wisdom teeth to detect if they are coming in and check if they have punctured the gum line. Through an examination, any symptoms of swelling and infection can be investigated.
Symptoms of Pericoronitis
The main symptoms can include:
Swelling in the gums
Pain
Infection
A “sour” taste in the mouth
Swelling of the lymph nodes
Increased difficulty opening the mouth
Diagnosis and Treatment
If Pericoronitis is suspected, the first step will be to wash away the accumulated food causing the irritation. If the pain and swelling have not spread, the recommended treatment is to rinse your mouth with warm salt water. An antibacterial oral rinse may also be recommended. If swelling and pain are widespread, oral antibiotics will be prescribed. Over-the-counter pain relievers are also recommended.
Make sure to monitor the tooth closely after treatment. If symptoms are severe, or in the case of recurrent pericoronitis, oral surgery may be recommended to remove the wisdom tooth or gum flap.
If you experience any of these symptoms, specifically swelling and pain, make an appointment with Dr. Shaw right away. An untreated infection can spread into the throat and neck, restricting your ability to swallow and breathe. Thus, early prevention is key.
To learn more about our practice and the services we provide at our practice, visit www.fredrickshawdds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Frederick Shaw in Austin, TX, call 512-451-7491.
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