Wisdom teeth can be unpredictable — for some, they come in without issue, but for many others, they cause pain, infection, and require surgical removal. If you’re experiencing swelling, pain, or a bad taste in your mouth, you could be dealing with an infected wisdom tooth. Here’s everything you need to know about managing an infection, the wisdom teeth removal aftermath, and the wisdom tooth removal cost involved.
Signs of an Infected Wisdom Tooth
An infected wisdom tooth (also called pericoronitis when infection occurs around a partially erupted tooth) is a common dental issue, especially in young adults. Symptoms include:
- Throbbing pain at the back of your mouth
- Swelling of the gums or jaw
- Bad breath or a foul taste
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- Fever in more serious cases
If you suspect an infection, it’s important to seek treatment immediately to avoid complications like abscesses or the spread of infection.
Treating an Infected Wisdom Tooth
Treatment usually involves:
- Antibiotics to control infection
- Pain relief with over-the-counter or prescription medication
- Irrigation and cleaning of the area
- Surgical removal of the tooth once the infection is under control
Removing the tooth is often the best long-term solution, especially if the tooth is impacted or partially erupted.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Aftermath: What to Expect
After surgery, the wisdom teeth removal aftermath can vary based on how complex the extraction was. Here’s what most patients can expect:
- Swelling and Bruising: Especially in the first 48 hours
- Mild to Moderate Pain: Manageable with prescribed painkillers or anti-inflammatories
- Bleeding: Slight bleeding for a few hours after surgery is normal
- Soft Diet: Stick to liquids and soft foods for a few days
- Rest: Avoid heavy activity for at least 48 hours
Most people recover in about a week. Complications like dry socket or lingering numbness are rare but possible.
Wisdom Tooth Removal Cost
The wisdom tooth removal cost varies widely depending on several factors:
- Simple extraction: $150 – $300 per tooth
- Surgical extraction (impacted teeth): $300 – $650+ per tooth
- Sedation/General anesthesia: May add $100 – $600+ to the bill
- Health insurance coverage: May cover part or all of the cost, especially if the procedure is medically necessary
It’s a good idea to get a written estimate from your dentist or oral surgeon, and ask if payment plans are available.
Final Thoughts
An infected wisdom tooth is not something to ignore. Prompt treatment can relieve your pain, prevent further complications, and restore your comfort. While the wisdom teeth removal aftermath requires a few days of rest and care, it’s a short-term step toward long-term relief. And although the wisdom tooth removal cost can vary, many clinics offer flexible payment options or insurance coverage to make the procedure more affordable.