Pericoronitis: What is It and How to Stop It
If you’ve ever experienced pain or swelling at the back of your mouth near your wisdom teeth, you might have encountered a condition called pericoronitis. This dental issue can cause discomfort and, if left untreated, lead to more serious complications. The good news is that pericoronitis is treatable with the right care.
At Brandon Smiles Dentistry, we’re here to help you understand what pericoronitis is, how to recognize the symptoms, and what steps you can take to stop it before it gets worse.
What is Pericoronitis?
Pericoronitis is an inflammation of the gum tissue that surrounds a partially erupted tooth. Most often, that would be a wisdom tooth. When a wisdom tooth doesn’t fully emerge from the gumline, it can leave a flap of gum tissue covering part of the tooth. This flap can trap food particles and bacteria, creating the perfect environment for infection and inflammation to develop.
This condition is most common in young adults as wisdom teeth begin to erupt in the late teens or early twenties. It can occur in one or multiple wisdom teeth and may range from mild irritation to severe pain and swelling.
What Causes Pericoronitis?
The primary cause of pericoronitis is the buildup of food debris and bacteria beneath the gum flap covering the partially erupted tooth. This trapped debris can lead to infection and inflammation, particularly if the area is difficult to clean effectively.
Other factors that can contribute to pericoronitis include poor oral hygiene, stress, or a compromised immune system. Additionally, the constant pressure and irritation from chewing or biting down on the gum flap can exacerbate the condition.
Symptoms of Pericoronitis
Recognizing the signs of pericoronitis is essential for seeking timely treatment. Common symptoms include pain and swelling in the gums near the affected tooth, often accompanied by redness and tenderness.
You may also experience difficulty opening your mouth fully, pain while chewing, or an unpleasant taste in your mouth caused by the presence of pus from an infection. In more severe cases, pericoronitis can lead to swelling that spreads to the jaw, neck, or cheeks, and may even cause fever or difficulty swallowing.
How to Stop Pericoronitis
The first step in managing pericoronitis is to address the infection and reduce inflammation. If you suspect that you have pericoronitis, it’s important to contact your dentist as soon as possible. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening and minimize the risk of complications.
At-home care can provide temporary relief while you wait for your dental appointment. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water several times a day can help reduce swelling and flush out debris. Over-the-counter pain relievers can alleviate discomfort, but they should only be used as a short-term solution.
Your dentist will evaluate the severity of your condition and recommend the appropriate treatment. For mild cases, professional cleaning of the area may be sufficient to remove trapped debris and bacteria. Antibiotics may be prescribed to control infection, particularly if swelling or fever is present.
In more severe or recurrent cases, your dentist may recommend removing the gum flap or extracting the wisdom tooth to eliminate the source of irritation and prevent future episodes of pericoronitis.
Preventing Pericoronitis
Good oral hygiene is the best defense against pericoronitis. Brushing and flossing regularly, especially around partially erupted wisdom teeth, can help keep the area clean and free of debris. Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can further reduce the risk of infection by killing bacteria that contribute to inflammation.
Regular dental check-ups are essential for monitoring the development of your wisdom teeth. Your dentist can assess whether your wisdom teeth are likely to cause problems and recommend preventive measures, such as extraction, before complications arise.
Avoiding foods that are likely to get stuck near the gum flap, such as seeds or popcorn, can also help minimize the risk of irritation and infection.
When to See a Dentist
While mild cases of pericoronitis can sometimes be managed at home, it’s important to seek professional care if your symptoms persist or worsen. Severe pain, swelling that extends to other areas, fever, or difficulty swallowing are signs of a more serious infection that requires immediate attention.
Left untreated, pericoronitis can lead to complications such as abscesses, the spread of infection, or even systemic issues that affect your overall health. Early treatment is the key to a quick and successful recovery.
Protect Your Smile at Brandon Smiles Dentistry
Pericoronitis is a common but manageable condition that can cause significant discomfort if left untreated. By understanding its causes and symptoms, you can take proactive steps to maintain good oral hygiene and seek timely care when needed.
At Brandon Smiles Dentistry, we’re here to provide the expert care and support you need to address pericoronitis and keep your smile healthy. If you’re experiencing pain or swelling near your wisdom teeth, then book an appointment with us right away!