When your mouth starts aching in ways you didn’t expect, it can be hard to tell if it’s just something minor or if it’s time to call a dentist. One issue that often surprises people is pericoronitis, a condition that tends to show up around wisdom teeth. If you’ve ever had swollen gums in the back of your mouth or pain near a partially erupted tooth, you may already know how uncomfortable it can feel. That’s where finding the right care at West University Dental really matters.
This guide walks you through what pericoronitis is, why it happens, and how a trusted emergency dentist can help. We’ll also cover what patients usually experience, how dentists typically manage it, and what steps may prevent it from coming back.
What Is Pericoronitis?
Pericoronitis is an inflammation that usually develops around a wisdom tooth that hasn’t fully erupted. When part of the tooth is still covered by gum tissue, food particles and bacteria can easily get trapped under the flap of gum. That area is difficult to clean, which is why swelling and discomfort may follow.
Many patients describe it as tenderness or soreness near the back of the mouth. For some, it may feel like a dull ache that makes chewing uncomfortable. Others notice swelling, redness, or even difficulty opening their mouth fully.
It’s a fairly common condition, especially in young adults whose wisdom teeth are still making their appearance. And while it may start as mild discomfort, it can progress if not treated in time.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It
The tricky part about pericoronitis is that it can get worse if it’s left untreated. Because bacteria thrive in that small pocket of gum tissue, infection is possible. If swelling increases, it may affect nearby areas, making it harder to bite, chew, or even swallow comfortably.
Some people wonder things like can pericoronitis kill you. While fatal outcomes are extremely rare, untreated dental infections can sometimes spread, which is why dentists stress early evaluation. The important takeaway here is not to panic, but not to delay care either. A dentist can often treat pericoronitis effectively before it develops into anything more complicated.
Why Emergency Care Matters
Dental discomfort doesn’t always stick to a schedule. It may start suddenly, and sometimes the pain worsens quickly. That’s when having an Emergency Dentist Near Me becomes a relief.
Emergency visits aren’t only for broken teeth or sudden trauma. They’re also for conditions like pericoronitis, where waiting too long may make the situation worse. At an emergency appointment, a dentist can:
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Examine the tooth and gum area
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Rinse and clean the pocket where bacteria may be trapped
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Prescribe medication if infection is present or swelling is significant
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Discuss whether the wisdom tooth may eventually need removal
The goal is to reduce discomfort, manage any infection, and make sure your mouth feels more manageable until a long-term plan is in place.
How Dentists Typically Treat Pericoronitis
Treatment depends on the severity of the case. For mild cases, a dentist may simply clean the area thoroughly and suggest better ways to keep it clear of food particles. Saltwater rinses or antibacterial rinses are sometimes recommended to help reduce irritation at home.
If swelling and infection are present, antibiotics may be prescribed. In some situations, the flap of gum tissue covering the tooth can be trimmed to prevent food from getting stuck again. For recurring cases, the dentist may suggest removing the wisdom tooth altogether, especially if it doesn’t have enough room to fully erupt.
Patients often find that once the immediate swelling is addressed, the pain lessens significantly. From there, it’s about deciding whether monitoring the area is enough or if extraction is the smarter long-term choice.
Why Choosing the Right Dentist Matters
When you’re searching for care, you don’t just want any Dentist Near Me. You want someone experienced, approachable, and capable of handling urgent dental concerns like pericoronitis.
At West University Dental, the focus is on balancing expertise with a calm, supportive environment. Many patients find that when they’re already anxious about dental pain, having a dentist who explains each step makes the whole experience easier to handle.
Whether it’s emergency care or long-term wisdom tooth planning, the right dentist can walk you through your options so you don’t feel rushed into a decision.
Preventing Future Problems
Once you’ve had pericoronitis, it’s normal to wonder how to avoid dealing with it again. While wisdom tooth positioning isn’t something you can change, there are some steps that may lower the chances of recurrence:
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Keep up with consistent brushing and flossing, even around hard-to-reach areas.
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Use an antibacterial rinse if your dentist recommends it.
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Schedule regular checkups so your dentist can monitor partially erupted teeth.
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Consider extraction if your dentist believes the tooth is unlikely to fully come in without causing problems.
Many patients find that once a wisdom tooth is removed, they no longer have issues with pericoronitis in that spot. Still, removal isn’t always necessary right away, and your dentist can guide you on timing.
Living with Wisdom Teeth: What to Expect
Wisdom teeth are unpredictable. Some people never have any issues, while others deal with repeated swelling or discomfort. If you’ve had one episode of pericoronitis, it doesn’t automatically mean the tooth must come out. It just means your dentist will want to keep a closer eye on it.
Think of it as a red flag rather than a final verdict. With the right monitoring and care, you and your dentist can decide whether keeping the tooth makes sense or if extraction will prevent future problems.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with pericoronitis can be frustrating, especially when it comes on suddenly. But having a trusted dental team nearby makes all the difference. With West University Dental, you don’t have to second-guess where to turn. Whether it’s emergency care, routine checkups, or planning for wisdom teeth, you’ll have guidance that’s both professional and approachable.
FAQ
1. What does pericoronitis feel like?
Many patients describe it as swelling or soreness near a wisdom tooth. It may feel tender when chewing or cause difficulty opening the mouth fully.
2. Does pericoronitis always require antibiotics?
Not always. Mild cases may improve with cleaning and rinsing. Antibiotics are usually prescribed when infection and swelling are more severe.
3. Can wisdom teeth cause repeated pericoronitis?
Yes, if a tooth is partially erupted and keeps trapping food or bacteria, pericoronitis may come back. Extraction may be recommended in those cases.
4. How urgent is pericoronitis?
It depends on the severity. Mild discomfort can often wait a day or two, but increasing pain, swelling, or difficulty swallowing should be checked right away.
5. Can pericoronitis spread if untreated?
It can. That’s why dentists recommend not ignoring it. While serious complications are rare, they’re possible if infection spreads.