When a wisdom tooth becomes infected, dental treatment is usually necessary. However, not every type of pain in the back of the mouth is caused by a tooth infection. In Saudi Arabia, Batal Dental Center is considered one of the leading clinics, offering advanced procedures such as dental implants, dental restorations, and dedicated pediatric dentistry clinics.Below, we discuss the treatment options for wisdom tooth infection and related pain.Read also: Wisdom Tooth Stitches | Types, Care, Healing Time, and More

How Infection Develops

Wisdom teeth are particularly prone to infection because they are difficult to clean properly. Food debris and bacteria can easily become trapped between the tooth and the gum. An impacted wisdom tooth may also fail to erupt correctly through the gum; it might partially emerge, grow at an angle, or even remain completely sideways within the jaw.A partially impacted wisdom tooth is at higher risk of infection because its position and shape make tooth decay more likely. Dental infection occurs when bacterial overgrowth creates cavities in the hard outer enamel layer of the tooth.Several types of bacteria can cause infection in and around a wisdom tooth. In rare cases, the infection may spread to other areas of the mouth, face, or head.Read also: Is Bone Grafting Necessary Before Dental Implants?

Treatment Options

Treatment for an infected wisdom tooth may include several approaches.At Batal Dental Center, the dentist will examine the teeth and take X‑rays of the area. This helps determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Medications

Antibiotics are usually prescribed to control and clear the infection in the wisdom tooth. They may need to be taken for at least a week before the tooth is repaired or extracted. Antibiotics help the infected tooth and surrounding tissues heal and reduce the risk of the infection spreading.The dentist or physician may prescribe antibiotics such as:– (Examples typically used in practice include amoxicillin, amoxicillin–clavulanate, metronidazole, or clindamycin, depending on the case and allergies.)The dentist may also recommend pain relievers before and after treatment of the infected wisdom tooth, including:– (Common options include ibuprofen, paracetamol/acetaminophen, or a combination, as appropriate.)If the wisdom tooth is severely damaged, the dentist may remove it partially or completely. Impacted wisdom teeth with infection often require a minor surgical procedure. Other impacted wisdom teeth might also be removed at the same time to reduce the risk of future infections.In some cases, the dentist may remove the gum tissue covering an impacted wisdom tooth to allow it to erupt more easily. Another dental procedure removes only the upper portion (crown) of the wisdom tooth while leaving the roots in place; this is called a “coronectomy.” A coronectomy can help protect the nerves of the tooth roots and the surrounding jawbone.Read also: What Is Dental Scaling? Types, Costs, and FAQs

Surgical Facts

For wisdom tooth surgery, the dentist or oral surgeon will use local anesthesia (injections to numb the area) or, in some cases, general anesthesia. The procedure can take around 20 minutes or longer, depending on the tooth’s position and complexity. Sometimes, the tooth is sectioned into smaller pieces and removed in parts to help avoid damage to nearby nerves and jawbone.Possible side effects and risks after wisdom tooth removal surgery include:– Pain and swelling – Bruising – Bleeding – Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) – Nerve irritation or temporary numbness – InfectionAn infection in the mouth can appear about two weeks, or even up to two months, after the wisdom tooth has been removed.Read also: Gingivectomy | Procedure, Duration, and Do You Really Need One?

Home Remedies

Home remedies cannot cure a wisdom tooth infection. However, some simple measures may provide temporary relief from pain and discomfort, such as:– Rinsing with warm salt water – Using over‑the‑counter pain medications as directed – Applying cold compresses to reduce swellingThese measures are only supportive; they do not replace professional dental treatment.Read also: Crossbite Treatment | Everything You Want to Know

When to See a Doctor

Symptoms involving the teeth, gums, or jaw should not be ignored, especially if you experience:– Persistent or severe toothache – Swelling in the gums, cheek, or jaw – Difficulty opening the mouth – Bad breath or a foul taste in the mouth – Fever or general malaiseRead also: Everything You Need to Know About Deep Dental CleaningRegular check‑ups at Batal Dental Center in Saudi Arabia can help prevent complications related to wisdom teeth and detect problems early.Good oral hygiene—such as brushing and flossing several times a day—also plays a key role in reducing the risk of wisdom tooth infection.Batal Specialized Dental Complex in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, is regarded as one of the top dental centers. The dental clinic at Batal Complex is equipped with advanced tools and technologies designed to help anyone suffering from tooth pain find relief, under the care of highly skilled dentists. Do not hesitate to book an appointment at Batal Specialized Dental Clinic to address any dental concerns promptly.Read also: Enamel Erosion | Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment