Impacted Third Molar
Third molars (wisdom teeth) are notorious for becoming impacted. Once impacted, they are almost impossible to clean. Bacteria flourish and cause decay and painful infections. Wisdom teeth are removed to clear up the infection problems and allow patients to adequately clean their teeth.
Infected Wisdom Teeth: What You Need to Know About Third Molar Infections
At Dr. Michael Nugent’s dental office in Pasadena, TX, patients often ask about pain and swelling near the back of their mouths. One common culprit? An infected third molar, also known as an infected wisdom tooth.
When wisdom teeth are partially erupted or impacted, bacteria and food can become trapped beneath the gums. This leads to a painful condition known as pericoronitis, a localized infection that can cause significant discomfort, swelling, and even fever.
In this educational video, Dr. Nugent explains the warning signs of wisdom tooth infections, how they occur, and when it’s time to take action.
Signs of a Wisdom Tooth Infection:
Swelling around the jaw or back of the mouth
Pain when chewing or opening the mouth
Bad breath or foul taste
Red or inflamed gum tissue
Fever or swollen lymph nodes in severe cases
Delaying treatment for an infected wisdom tooth can allow the infection to spread, affecting your overall health. That’s why early evaluation and timely care are essential. At our Pasadena dental practice, Dr. Nugent uses advanced imaging to assess wisdom teeth and determine the best treatment — including extraction if needed — to get you out of pain fast.