HomeAnswersDentistrywisdom teethMy wisdom tooth is hurting with a flap covering the tooth. Should I get it removed?

I have pain in my wisdom tooth. What should I do?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Prerna Jain

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Nithila. A

Published At October 7, 2019
Reviewed AtJanuary 29, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My wisdom teeth is hurting. There is a big flap covering the tooth, and I think food is stuck in there. Should I get this one removed?

Answered by Dr. Prerna Jain

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

This is called pericoronitis. Food gets trapped under the gums. You need to send in pictures and x-ray (orthopantomogram) for a conclusive diagnosis. Two things can be done.

1. At home, you can use a syringe with clean boiled or distilled water or with Betadine (diluted with water) to spray water under the flap and clean it. Also, you can use Chlorhexidine gel topically two times a day to aid in healing.

2. You can get professional scaling in the area. Might even need to remove the flap if it bothers again. It is a very simple procedure done under local anesthesia. Also, get evaluated of you need to get wisdom teeth removed. It may not even be necessary.

Probable diagnosis

Pericoronitis.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Prerna Jain
Dr. Prerna Jain

Dentistry

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