Overview
Wisdom teeth are the last molars to erupt. Some come in normally, while others remain impacted or partly covered by gum. Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap food and bacteria, leading to pericoronitis, swelling, bad taste, or difficulty opening the mouth.
Key Takeaways
- ✓Not every wisdom tooth needs removal.
- ✓Partially erupted wisdom teeth are harder to clean.
- ✓Repeated swelling or infection often needs surgical assessment.
- ✓X-rays help determine position and risk.
What You Can Do At Home
- 1Keep the back of the mouth as clean as possible.
- 2Rinse gently with warm salt water during mild gum irritation.
- 3Avoid chewing hard foods on a painful wisdom tooth area.
- 4Do not self-start antibiotics for recurring swelling.
When To Book A Dentist
- !Pain or swelling occurs behind the last molar.
- !Food traps repeatedly around the wisdom tooth.
- !You have bad taste, pus, or difficulty opening the mouth.
- !You need an X-ray to assess impaction.
Emergency Warning Signs
- !Fever, facial swelling, or spreading neck swelling.
- !Difficulty swallowing, breathing, or opening the mouth.