Pericoronitis is a dental condition that can result in significant discomfort and serious health complications if not treated. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment of pericoronitis is important for Kamloops residents to protect their oral health. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about pericoronitis as described by a Kamloops family dentist.

What is Pericoronitis?

Pericoronitis is inflammation of the mucosa covering a partially erupted tooth (most commonly the third molars, which is also known as wisdom teeth). When a tooth partially breaks through the gum surface, the flap of gum tissue that forms over the tooth can trap food particles and bacteria, causing infection and irritation in the gum tissue.

Causes of Pericoronitis

Pericoronitis is primarily caused by the partial eruption of wisdom teeth. These teeth usually lack room to fully appear, which means they can become partially stuck under the gum tissue. This sets the stage for the buildup of food particles, debris, and bacteria.

• Poor Oral Hygiene: Poor oral hygiene can further compound the situation as bacteria flourish around the incomplete tooth uprising. Brushing and flossing regularly are necessary to help remove food particles that become trapped and lessen the chance of infection.
• Trauma: Another cause of pericoronitis is trauma to the gum tissue surrounding a partially erupted tooth, such as biting or chewing hard foods. This injury can now serve as a portal for bacteria to infect and inflame the tissue.

Symptoms of Pericoronitis

• Pain and Swelling: Pain and swelling in the affected area is one of the most common symptoms of pericoronitis. The pain may be constant or come and go, and it can spread to the jaw, ear, and throat. The swelling can limit how much the mouth can be opened and can be painful while chewing and swallowing.
• Redness and Inflammation: The gum tissue surrounding the partially erupted tooth is usually red and swollen.
• Halitosis and Bitter Taste: This can dry out the mouth and allow food particles and bacteria to build up, which can lead to bad breath (halitosis) and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. This is often due to either the infection or pus on the site.
• Difficulty Opening the Mouth: In the case of severe pericoronitis, trismus may occur, which is where the surrounding muscles of the jaw become stiff, preventing the jaw from opening fully. This can affect eating, speaking, and gut hygiene.

Management of Pericoronitis

• Professional Cleaning: A dentist can do a deep cleaning of the area and eliminate trapped food particles and bacteria. This reduces inflammation and aids in repair. The dentist may even prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection in some cases.
• Pain Relief: Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen — both of which are available over the counter — can help control pain while reducing inflammation. Warm salt water rinses are also effective at soothing the inflamed gum tissue.
• Surgical Intervention: Surgical treatment may be required in more extreme situations. This may involve gum flap removal (operculectomy) to prevent trapping of food/bacteria, or extraction of the partially erupted wisdom tooth if it is a recurrent problem.

Pericoronitis is an unpleasant and potentially dangerous illness that needs to be treated right away. Knowing the causes, signs, and available treatments for pericoronitis can help Kamloops people keep their teeth healthy and avoid problems. It’s critical to get professional dental care if you think you may have pericoronitis in order to address the condition and get the right care. Effective prevention and management of this illness depend on routine dental examinations and proper oral hygiene habits.