Pericoronitis is the inflammation of the gums around a tooth that is being erupted.
Even though it can happen with any erupting tooth It is more common in the wisdom tooth(third molar)site of lower jaw
The space between the erupting tooth crown and overlying gums is an ideal place for food accumulation and allows for bacterial growth. This causes Pericoronitis, pain and swelling.
What are the symptoms of pericoronitis?
Symptoms of Pericoronitis can be varied.
The severity can vary from no pain to severe pain, swelling of the cheek at the corner of the jaw, inability to close the mouth due to trauma from upper jaw during closure.
The pain can radiate to ear, throat and floor of the mouth, a foul taste in the mouth. The patient may also suffer from fever and body ache.
What is the treatment of Pericoronitis ?
Treatment of Pericoronitis depends on severity of inflammation, the systemic complications and the advisability of retaining the affected tooth
Gentle flushing of the area with warm water to remove debris
Topical application of antiseptic gels after gentle lifting of the gum covering the involved tooth
Suitable antibiotics and painkillers to relieve pain and infection
In cases of swelling drainage can be established to relieve pressure
To prevent recurrence of pericoronitis, decision has to be made to retention or removal of third molar.
In case of tooth retention, the gum covering the tooth is removed. This surgical procedure is called Operculectomy. This removes further chances of food accumulation and gum inflammation. Maintaining oral hygiene at the site of tooth eruption is very crucial to prevent Pericoronitis
what are the preventive measures for pericoronitis?
Maintaining oral hygiene at the site of tooth eruption is very crucial to prevent pericoronitis.
