Understanding & Treating Pericoronitis
Wisdom teeth can sometimes cause a painful condition known as pericoronitis—a common dental issue that arises when the gum tissue around a partially erupted tooth becomes infected. At Frederick Street Dental Care, we specialize in the prompt and effective treatment of infected wisdom teeth, offering emergency care that prioritizes your comfort and long-term oral health.
What Is Pericoronitis?
Pericoronitis is the inflammation and infection of the soft tissue surrounding a partially erupted wisdom tooth. It usually affects the lower third molars and occurs when bacteria and food debris get trapped under the gum flap covering the tooth. This creates a breeding ground for infection, leading to significant pain and swelling.
Causes of Pericoronitis:
- Partially erupted wisdom teeth
- Food and plaque trapped under gum flaps
- Poor oral hygiene
- Trauma to the gum tissue
Infected Wisdom Tooth Symptoms
Pericoronitis symptoms can range from mild irritation to severe infection. Common signs include:
- Pain in the back of the mouth or jaw
- Swelling of the gum around the wisdom tooth
- Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Difficulty opening the mouth (trismus)
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Fever in severe cases
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek emergency dental care as soon as possible. Delaying treatment can lead to the spread of infection and more serious complications.
Urgent Care for Infected Wisdom Teeth
At Frederick Street Dental Care, we provide fast, effective treatment for pericoronitis and infected wisdom teeth. Our emergency care focuses on eliminating the infection, relieving pain, and protecting your overall dental health.
Our Emergency Treatments Include:
Thorough Cleaning: We clean the affected area to remove trapped debris and bacteria.
Antibiotics: If the infection is severe or has spread, we prescribe antibiotics to stop the infection and reduce swelling.
Pain Management: We offer appropriate pain relief solutions to ease discomfort.
Irrigation and Debridement: Using sterile solutions, we flush out the infected area to promote healing.
Surgical Intervention: In recurring or severe cases, we may recommend removing the gum flap (operculectomy) or extracting the problematic wisdom tooth
Will Pericoronitis Come Back?
Pericoronitis can recur if the underlying cause is not addressed. The infection may return if the wisdom tooth remains partially erupted and continues to trap food and bacteria under the gum tissue.
Preventing Recurrence:
Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Removing the problematic tooth is often the most effective way to prevent future infections.
Improved Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing regularly, especially around the back teeth, can help prevent bacteria build-up.
Routine Dental Visits: Regular dental check-ups ensure early detection of wisdom tooth problems before they escalate.
Why Choose Frederick Street Dental Care?
At Frederick Street Dental Care, we’re committed to providing high quality, compassionate care tailored to your needs.
Our Advantages:
Experienced Emergency Dentists: Our team has years of experience handling infected wisdom teeth and dental emergencies.
Prompt, Same-Day Appointments: We understand the urgency of pain and swelling. Our flexible schedule allows for immediate attention.
Modern Diagnostic Tools: We use state-of-the-art equipment for accurate diagnosis and safe treatment.
Comprehensive Care: From pain relief and infection control to surgical extraction and aftercare, we manage every aspect of your recovery.
Book Same Day Appointment
Don’t wait – get urgent dental care when you need it! If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, We are open 7 days a week. Book your emergency appointment now by calling us at 0131 629 1158 or Book online.
Emergency Consultation Fee: £95.00 X-rays and treatment costs are not included in the consultation fee.