Pericoronitis

Pericoronitis occurs when the gum tissue around your partially erupted wisdom teeth becomes inflamed, leading to pain, swelling, and in some cases, infection. This condition primarily affects the lower wisdom teeth and can manifest in both acute and chronic forms.

What Causes Pericoronitis?

The main culprit behind pericoronitis is the accumulation of bacteria under the gum flap of a partially erupted wisdom tooth. This creates an ideal environment for infection, leading to symptoms such as severe pain, difficulty swallowing, and even fever in acute cases. Chronic pericoronitis may result in persistent bad breath and a dull ache. Discover more about oral health and prevention on our blogs.

Symptoms to Watch For

• Severe pain and swelling around wisdom teeth
• Difficulty opening your mouth or swallowing
• Fever and pus discharge in acute cases
• Persistent bad breath and dull ache in chronic cases

Our treatment approach begins with a thorough examination, including clinical assessment and X-rays, to evaluate the severity of your condition. Treatment options include:

• Oral irrigators and rinses to clean the affected area
• Pain management and antibiotics to reduce inflammation
• Surgical removal of the gum flap or extraction of the wisdom tooth for lasting relief

Learn about our surgical services and how we prioritize your comfort and recovery.

Managing Pericoronitis at Home

While professional treatment is essential for severe cases, mild pericoronitis can be managed with good oral hygiene, warm saltwater rinses, and careful cleaning with an oral irrigator. However, if symptoms persist, it's crucial to seek professional care.

• Maintain a good oral hygiene routine.
• Use a warm saltwater rinse to soothe the inflammation.
• Use diluted hydrogen peroxide to reduce bacteria in your mouth.
• Use an oral irrigator to keep the area clean.
  

Although these steps can help reduce the severity of your symptoms for a while, it is vital that you seek medical advice if your symptoms intensify.  Our oral surgeons can give you the treatment you need to reduce your pain and lower the risk of wisdom tooth infection.

For more information about pericoronitis, we encourage you to schedule an appointment. If you are feeling any symptoms, please do not hesitate to schedule an appointment at one of our Bay Area OSM offices today! We look forward to helping you receive the best treatment, relieving your symptoms, and putting your mind at ease.

WHO IS AFFECTED BY PERICORONITIS?

Most commonly, people who are in their 20s. However, it can also affect those of different age groups.

WHAT FACTORS CAN INCREASE MY CHANCES OF DEVELOPING PERICORONITIS?

• Stress
• Poor oral hygiene
• Pregnancy
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Not seeing your general surgeon for routine checkups and cleanings
  

HOW LONG DOES PERICORONITIS LAST?

If not treated, symptoms of pericoronitis can last for a few days to weeks, depending on how severe your symptoms are. However, within one to two weeks of treatment, the condition should resolve.

Don't let pericoronitis disrupt your life. If you're experiencing symptoms, schedule an appointment at one of our Bay Area OSM offices. Our team is ready to provide expert care, from diagnosis to treatment, ensuring your oral health is restored and your comfort is regained.

Experience the difference with Bay Area OSM's comprehensive approach to pericoronitis treatment. Our commitment to excellence and patient care ensures you receive the best possible outcomes, restoring your smile and comfort. Visit our About page to learn more about our practice and dedication to your oral health.