How can redness and pain around the wisdom tooth be treated?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have had problems with my wisdom tooth on the lower right side in the past. I have taken antibiotics once and at other times, it cleared up by itself when I used salt water and mouthwash. However, the gum around the wisdom tooth on the lower left side is now red, inflamed, and painful. You can see the image attached. From the image, do you think antibiotics are needed? Would salt water and mouthwash be sufficient? And if so, how long will this take to resolve? Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I am here to answer your queries.

I am an oral surgeon and will be answering your query shortly.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Glad to have you back!

I am here to help you get the best medical advice.

Thank you for the clear image (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity). But, it is deeply impacted even now. So there is not only a risk of the infection spreading to the nerves or lower lymph nodes, but also an imminent risk in the oral cavity. At the end of the day, antiseptic mouthwashes can only be a temporary remedy. The antibiotic prophylaxis which I am going to prescribe now can be continued for three days whenever you get a flare-up or an infection. It would really help control the infection every time it tends to restart.

Please confirm your age and if you have any other medical issues or any medication history for the antibiotic prophylaxis prescription. It is much needed for your tooth.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Answer 3

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Once more, thank you for allowing us to be of service to you.

We value the high level of confidence that you have in us!

You can take the antibiotic and painkiller in combination which is much needed for symptomatic relief usually for three days. You can repeat this ideally whenever there is a flare-up or inflammation issue with that tooth. Note that both antibiotic and painkiller combinations whether there is pain or not should be taken only for symptomatic relief. Ideally, removal of the affected tooth is advisable. Consult your physician and take the medication accordingly. Keep using the mouthwash. If you have any doubts or apprehension about getting the extraction done, you can always revert.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.