Pericoronitis can develop when wisdom teeth only partially erupt (break through the gum). This allows an opening for bacteria to enter around the tooth and cause an infection. In cases of pericoronitis, food or plaque (a bacterial film that remains on teeth after eating) may get caught underneath a flap of gum around the tooth. If it remains there, it can irritate the gum and lead to pericoronitis. If the pericoronitis is severe, the swelling and infection may extend beyond the jaw to the cheeks and neck.
Symptoms of pericoronitis can include:
According to the American Dental Association, wisdom teeth removal may be necessary if someone experiences changes in the area of those teeth, such as:
The decision to remove wisdom teeth isn’t always clear. Talk to your dentist or an oral surgeon about the position and health of your wisdom teeth and what’s best for your situation.
You are likely to experience pain for the first 48 hours, although your mouth may well be sore for up to a week or so after the operation. Local anaesthetic injections given during the procedure ensure that you have no pain for the first 3–4 hours after surgery, but once the anaesthetic wears off, you need to take the painkillers given to you. You should take these regularly to ensure that you sleep well on the first night; this will maximize your recovery. You will normally be prescribed paracetamol and ibuprofen.
When these two drugs are taken together, they enhance the effect of each other because they work in different ways. Be sure to follow the directions given to you by your surgeon. Some patients may not be able to take these medications due to medical problems, but in these cases, alternatives will be provided.