Wisdom tooth extraction can put an individual at risk for infection. The wisdom teeth are positioned at the rear of the mouth and the last to erupt usually late teen to mid-20s. Normally, there are 4 wisdom teeth – both on the top and bottom of each side of the mouth.
Just like with any wound in the body, the hole where wisdom tooth extraction was performed can become infected. Once you can pinpoint the indications of infection, it is vital to set an appointment with a doctor for proper treatment as soon as possible.
Tenderness after wisdom tooth extraction
An infection is often accompanied by tenderness in the affected area, but it might not indicate that there is an infection in the hole where the wisdom tooth was extracted. Individuals who undergo wisdom tooth removal can experience pain at the site, from the extraction and from the stitches utilized to seal the hole.
Fever
Having a fever is a sure indication of an infection after a wisdom tooth extraction. A rise in the body temperature is one manner in which the body combats an infection. Most of the bacteria responsible for infection start to perish at temperatures greater than 98.6 degrees F.
Adults have fever if the temperature increases above 99 degrees F. If you suspect that an individual has an infection after a wisdom tooth extraction, check his/her temperature. An antibiotic is usually prescribed to manage the infection and reduce the temperature.
In case there is intense pain, it might indicate a dry socket especially if the pain radiates up the jaw line towards the ear. Take note that dry sockets occur once the blood clot that protects the opening from where the wisdom tooth was extracted was lost. This can occur when the individual creates a pulling action with the mouth such as sucking on a straw or smoking. Having a dry socket can put the jaw tissues at risk for infection due to the absence of the blood clot that protects against bacteria and food debris. The dentist can manage the issue using medicated gauze to relieve the pain. If the dry socket becomes infected, an antibiotic is prescribed.
Discharge
Similar to an open wound, pus can form during an infection. If infection is present, white or yellowish discharge might form in the wound. As the pus accumulates in the wound, it can spill or leak into the mouth which causes a bad or salty taste. Once infection occurs after the wisdom tooth extraction, the dentist might prescribe an antibiotic to eliminate the bacteria and stop the formation of pus.