Swelling around a wisdom tooth is most commonly caused by pericoronitis (infection under the gum flap), a dental abscess, or the normal process of eruption. Significant swelling, especially with pain and fever, requires prompt dental treatment. Most cases are resolved with antibiotics and extraction of the wisdom tooth.
What You'll Learn
Common Causes of Wisdom Tooth Swelling
Pericoronitis
The most common cause of wisdom tooth swelling. When a tooth only partially erupts, a flap of gum tissue covers part of it. Food and bacteria get trapped under this flap, causing infection and inflammation. The gum around the tooth becomes red, swollen, and tender.
Dental abscess
An abscess is a pocket of infection at the root of the tooth. It causes significant swelling in the jaw or cheek, throbbing pain, and often fever. An abscess requires prompt treatment to prevent the infection from spreading.
Normal eruption
As a wisdom tooth pushes through the gum, some mild swelling and tenderness is normal. This type of swelling is usually mild, comes and goes, and is not accompanied by fever or significant pain.
Impaction
A wisdom tooth that is blocked from fully erupting can put pressure on surrounding teeth and bone, causing swelling and discomfort in the area.
Decay or infection in the tooth
A wisdom tooth with a cavity or infection can cause swelling in the surrounding gum tissue and jaw, similar to any other infected tooth.
Call Us Right Away If You Have These Signs
Swelling that is spreading toward your neck or throat
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Fever alongside tooth pain and swelling
Swelling that is rapidly getting worse
Inability to open your mouth fully
Pus or a bad taste near the swollen area
Frequently Asked Questions
Wisdom Tooth Swelling? Don't Wait.
Swelling around a wisdom tooth is a sign that something needs attention. Call Merchants Walk Dental in Marietta for a prompt evaluation — we will identify the cause and get you on the path to relief.
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