If you’ve ever experienced a persistent ache at the back of your mouth, you know how uncomfortable it can be. Is it your wisdom teeth coming in, or could it be something more serious, like an infection?
While the symptoms of these two issues can sometimes overlap, understanding the difference is crucial for seeking the right treatment.
At Waterdown Smiles Dentistry, we often see patients who are unsure whether their discomfort is related to their wisdom teeth or an infection. In this post, we’ll explore the key differences between the two, the symptoms to watch for, and what steps to take to restore your comfort and oral health.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically emerge in your late teens or early twenties. For some people, wisdom teeth erupt without causing any issues. However, for many others, these teeth can lead to problems due to limited space in the jaw.
When wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to grow properly, they can become impacted. This means the tooth is trapped under the gum or grows at an angle, pressing against neighboring teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and even damage to nearby teeth or bone.
What Is a Dental Infection?
A dental infection occurs when bacteria invade the tooth, gum, or surrounding tissue. This can happen for several reasons, including untreated cavities, gum disease, or trauma to the tooth. Infections can also develop around a partially erupted wisdom tooth, a condition known as pericoronitis.
Infections can range from mild to severe and, if left untreated, can spread to other parts of the body, leading to serious health complications.
How to Tell the Difference
While both wisdom teeth and infections can cause discomfort, there are distinct differences in their symptoms that can help you identify the source of your pain.
Pain caused by wisdom teeth is often localized at the back of your mouth and may feel like pressure or a dull ache. It tends to occur intermittently and is usually worse when the tooth is trying to break through the gum. You might also notice swelling around the affected area, difficulty opening your mouth, or discomfort when chewing.
In contrast, pain from a dental infection is usually more intense and persistent. It may be accompanied by swelling that spreads to your face or neck, a fever, and a foul taste or odor in your mouth. If the infection has progressed, you might also notice pus near the affected tooth or gum.
When Wisdom Teeth Cause Infections
Sometimes, the lines blur because wisdom teeth can actually cause infections. This often happens when a wisdom tooth partially erupts, leaving a flap of gum tissue that traps food particles and bacteria. This creates the perfect environment for an infection to develop, leading to symptoms like pain, swelling, and difficulty swallowing or opening your mouth.
If you suspect that your wisdom teeth are infected, it’s important to seek dental care promptly. Infections can worsen quickly and may require antibiotics or other treatments to resolve.
What Should You Do If You’re Unsure?
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort at the back of your mouth and aren’t sure whether it’s due to your wisdom teeth or an infection, the best course of action is to consult a dentist. At Waterdown Smiles Dentistry, we’ll perform a thorough examination, including X-rays if necessary, to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment.
During your appointment, be sure to describe your symptoms in detail, including when they started, the severity of the pain, and any changes you’ve noticed. This information will help your dentist make an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment Options
If your discomfort is related to your wisdom teeth, your dentist may recommend monitoring their growth or removing them if they’re causing pain, damage, or risk of infection. Wisdom tooth extraction is a routine procedure that can relieve pain and prevent future complications.
For dental infections, treatment typically involves addressing the source of the infection, such as removing decay, performing a root canal, or cleaning the area thoroughly. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to eliminate the infection and prevent it from spreading.
Regardless of the cause, seeking treatment promptly is essential for relieving pain and protecting your oral health.
Don’t Ignore the Pain. Come to Waterdown Smiles Dentistry
Pain at the back of your mouth can be very uncomfortable, but understanding the difference between wisdom teeth and infections can help you take the right steps to address the problem.
Whether your discomfort is due to wisdom teeth trying to erupt or a dental infection requiring immediate attention, quick action is the key to relief.
At Waterdown Smiles Dentistry, we’re here to help you navigate these challenges and restore your dental health. If you’re experiencing pain or have concerns about your wisdom teeth, book an appointment with us today!
