Can a wisdom tooth infection go away on its own?

No. A dental infection will not resolve without treatment. Antibiotics can temporarily reduce the infection, but the underlying cause — the wisdom tooth itself — must be addressed. Without treatment, the infection can spread to the jaw, neck, or other areas, which can become life-threatening. Do not wait and hope it improves on its own.

Will I need the tooth removed if it is infected?

In most cases, yes. An infected wisdom tooth is typically extracted rather than treated with a root canal, because wisdom teeth are difficult to clean and maintain long-term. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics first to reduce the infection before the extraction, which makes the procedure safer and more comfortable.

How quickly can a wisdom tooth infection spread?

Dental infections can spread surprisingly quickly — sometimes within days. The infection can move from the tooth into the surrounding bone, gum tissue, and eventually into the spaces of the jaw and neck. If you notice swelling spreading toward your neck, difficulty swallowing, or trouble breathing, go to the emergency room immediately.

Can I take antibiotics instead of having the tooth removed?

Antibiotics can help control the infection temporarily, but they do not eliminate the source of the problem. Most dentists will prescribe antibiotics before extraction to reduce swelling and make the procedure safer — but the tooth will still need to come out. Relying on antibiotics alone is not a long-term solution.

What does a wisdom tooth infection feel like?

A wisdom tooth infection typically causes throbbing pain in the back of the mouth that may radiate to the jaw, ear, or throat. You may notice swelling in the cheek or jaw, a bad taste or smell in your mouth, and difficulty opening your mouth fully. Fever is a sign that the infection has become more serious.

How Do I Know If My Wisdom Tooth Is Infected? | Dental Learning Center

Quick Answer

Illustration of wisdom tooth infection signs

Signs of an infected wisdom tooth include throbbing pain in the back of the mouth, swelling in the jaw or cheek, a bad taste or smell, difficulty opening your mouth, and fever. An infection will not go away on its own — it requires prompt dental treatment, usually including extraction of the tooth.

What You'll Learn

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Signs of infection

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Emergency warning signs

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Treatment options

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When to call us

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Signs Your Wisdom Tooth May Be Infected

Throbbing pain in the back of the mouth

Persistent, pulsing pain near the back molars is one of the most common signs. It may radiate to the jaw, ear, or throat.

Swelling in the jaw or cheek

Visible swelling on one side of the face or jaw is a strong indicator of infection. The area may feel warm to the touch.

Bad taste or smell

Pus draining from the infected area creates a persistent bad taste or foul odor in the mouth that does not go away with brushing.

Difficulty opening your mouth

Infection and swelling in the jaw muscles can make it painful or difficult to open your mouth fully — a condition called trismus.

Swollen or bleeding gums

The gum tissue around the wisdom tooth may appear red, swollen, and tender. It may bleed easily when touched.

Fever

A fever alongside tooth pain is a sign that your body is fighting an infection. This is a more serious symptom that warrants prompt attention.

Go to the ER If You Have These Signs

A spreading dental infection can become life-threatening. Go to the emergency room immediately if you experience:

Swelling spreading to your neck or throat

Difficulty swallowing or breathing

High fever (above 101°F)

Inability to open your mouth at all

Swelling that is rapidly getting worse

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How Is an Infected Wisdom Tooth Treated?

Treatment for an infected wisdom tooth typically involves two steps:

Antibiotics to control the infection

Your dentist will often prescribe antibiotics to reduce the infection and swelling before the tooth is removed. This makes the extraction safer and more comfortable. Complete the full course even if you feel better.

Extraction of the wisdom tooth

Once the infection is under control, the wisdom tooth is removed. This eliminates the source of the infection and prevents it from returning. Most wisdom tooth extractions are straightforward procedures done under local anesthesia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Think Your Wisdom Tooth Is Infected?

Do not wait. A wisdom tooth infection can spread quickly and become serious. Call Merchants Walk Dental in Marietta for a same-day evaluation — we will get you out of pain and on the path to recovery.

Call (770) 926-0048 Request Appointment

Related Services

Tooth Extractions

Safe, comfortable removal of infected or impacted wisdom teeth.

Emergency Dentistry

Same-day care for dental infections and severe pain.

Root Canal Therapy

Save an infected tooth when extraction is not the right choice.