Wound infection is one of the possible complications after wisdom tooth extraction. Once infected, not only will the recovery time be prolonged, but it will also cause discomfort symptoms such as pain and swelling. Understanding the manifestations of infection and mastering the correct coping methods are crucial for a smooth recovery. Next, I will introduce in detail the relevant knowledge and treatment methods of infection after wisdom tooth extraction.
Symptoms of infection after wisdom tooth extraction
Local symptoms
Increased pain: Under normal circumstances, the pain after wisdom tooth extraction will gradually subside over time. If an infection occurs, the pain at the wound site will intensify significantly and be difficult to relieve with ordinary painkillers. The pain may also radiate to the temporal region of the ear, the submandibular area or the top of the head, seriously affecting daily life and rest.
Obvious swelling: Infection can lead to an aggravated inflammatory response in the tissues around the wound, and the degree of swelling is more severe than in normal recovery. The swelling area may expand, obvious changes will occur in the facial appearance, the skin will turn red, and the pain will intensify when pressed.\
Abnormal wound: When observing the wound, it can be found that the wound area is red and swollen, and even there is purulent discharge oozing out. The surface of a normally healed wound will gradually form a blood clot and become organized, while the blood clot of an infected wound may fall off, exposing the unhealthy tissue beneath. The edge of the wound is irregular, presenting a state of erosion or ulceration.
Bad breath: Due to infection causing tissue necrosis and bacterial growth at the wound site, a strong putrid smell will be emitted in the mouth, and it is difficult to eliminate even by brushing teeth or rinsing the mouth. This unpleasant smell is one of the important signals of infection.
Systemic symptoms
Severe infections may cause systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue, headache, etc. Body temperature usually exceeds 38℃, the body feels obviously unwell, the mental state deteriorates, and the appetite decreases. If these systemic symptoms occur, it indicates that the infection is already quite serious and immediate medical treatment is required.
Treatment methods for infections of different degrees
Mild infection
When mild signs of infection are found in the wound, such as slight redness and swelling, a small amount of discharge, and a slight increase in pain, measures should be taken promptly to control the development of the infection.
Oral hygiene: Use mouthwash with antibacterial and disinfecting effects recommended by doctors, such as chlorhexidine mouthwash, and increase the frequency of rinsing, 5 to 6 times a day, with each rinsing lasting no less than 30 seconds. When gargling, make sure the mouthwash fully contacts the wound. Try to wash away food residues and bacteria as much as possible to keep your mouth clean.
Local medication: Under the guidance of a doctor, medications such as iodine glycerin can be applied to the wound. Iodine glycerin has anti-inflammatory and bactericidal effects, can reduce wound inflammation and promote healing. When applying, use a clean cotton swab to dip a small amount of iodine glycerin and gently apply it around and on the surface of the wound.
Adjust your diet: Avoid spicy and irritating foods such as chili peppers, Sichuan pepper, Onions, etc. These foods can irritate the wound and aggravate inflammation. Eating more foods rich in vitamins and proteins, such as fresh vegetables, fruits, eggs, fish and meat, can enhance the body’s resistance and help fight infections.
Close observation: Observe the changes in the wound every day, record the degree of pain, swelling and the condition of secretions. If after 2 to 3 days of treatment, the symptoms do not worsen but instead improve, it indicates that the treatment method is effective and the above-mentioned care method can be continued. If the symptoms do not improve or even worsen, medical attention should be sought promptly.
Moderate infection
If the infection progresses further and moderate infection symptoms such as obvious swelling, severe pain and a large amount of purulent discharge occur, it is necessary to go to the hospital in time for professional treatment by a doctor.
Wound irrigation: The doctor will alternately rinse the wound with normal saline and 3% hydrogen peroxide solution. Hydrogen peroxide solution has strong oxidizing properties and can effectively kill bacteria in the wound, remove purulent secretions and necrotic tissues. Normal saline can flush out the residues after rinsing, keeping the wound clean. During the rinsing process, the patient may feel slightly uncomfortable, but this is a necessary step in the treatment.
Local application of medicine: After the irrigation is completed, the doctor will place iodoform gauze strips and other medications inside the wound. Iodoform yarn strips can continuously release iodide ions, which play a role in sterilization and preservation. At the same time, they can isolate the wound, prevent food residues from re-entering, and promote the growth of granulation tissue.
Oral antibiotics: Depending on the infection situation, doctors will prescribe appropriate antibiotic drugs, such as amoxicillin, metronidazole, etc. Patients must strictly follow the doctor’s instructions to take the medicine on time and in the prescribed dosage. Do not stop taking the medicine or increase or decrease the dosage by yourself to ensure that the medicine effectively controls the infection. Generally speaking, the course of treatment for antibiotics is 5 to 7 days, and the specific duration is determined by the doctor based on the patient’s condition.
Severe infection
When severe systemic symptoms such as high fever, chills, and general weakness occur, or when there is severe local swelling that affects functions such as breathing and swallowing, it indicates that the infection has developed to a severe stage and immediate hospitalization is necessary.
Intravenous infusion of antibiotics: By administering antibiotics intravenously, they can quickly enter the bloodstream, rapidly increase the drug concentration in the blood, and enhance the bactericidal effect. Doctors will select targeted antibiotics for treatment based on the type of bacteria causing the infection and the results of drug sensitivity tests to ensure effective control of the infection.
Incision and drainage: If an abscess forms around the wound, the doctor will perform incision and drainage under local anesthesia. Cutting open the abscess and draining the pus can reduce local pressure, relieve pain and prevent the spread of infection at the same time. After incision and drainage, it is necessary to change the dressing of the wound regularly to ensure smooth drainage and promote wound healing.
Supportive treatment: As severe infections consume a large amount of energy in the body, patients may experience conditions such as malnutrition. Therefore, supportive treatment is needed, such as replenishing fluids and electrolytes to maintain the balance of water and electrolytes in the body; When necessary, input nutrients such as albumin to enhance the body’s resistance and help the body fight infections.
Measures to prevent infection after wisdom tooth extraction
Preoperative preparation
Comprehensive examination: A thorough oral examination and full-body examination should be conducted before tooth extraction. Oral examinations include X-rays, CT scans, etc., to understand the growth of wisdom teeth and their relationship with surrounding tissues. A comprehensive physical examination should rule out systemic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and blood system disorders that may affect wound healing. If these diseases exist, the tooth extraction surgery should be performed only after the condition is under control.
Oral hygiene: Brush your teeth and rinse your mouth carefully the day before tooth extraction to keep your mouth clean. If conditions permit, you can go to the hospital for teeth cleaning to remove dental plaque and tartar on the surface of the teeth, reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth and lower the risk of postoperative infection.
Intraoperative cooperation
Choose a regular institution and professional doctor: For tooth extraction surgery, one should select a regular dental hospital or clinic to ensure that the surgical environment meets hygiene standards and that medical instruments are strictly disinfected. Professional doctors, with rich experience and proficient skills, can minimize surgical trauma and reduce the risk of infection as much as possible.
Cooperate with the doctor’s operation: During the operation, fully trust the doctor, maintain the correct posture and mouth opening state as required by the doctor, do not move your head at will or swallow saliva, to avoid affecting the doctor’s operation, prolonging the operation time and increasing the risk of infection.
Pressure hemostasis and cold compress: After tooth extraction, bite a cotton ball or gauze as instructed by the doctor to apply pressure hemostasis. Generally, it should be removed after 30 to 40 minutes. Cold compresses should be applied within 24 hours after the operation, each time for 15 to 20 minutes, with an interval of 1 to 2 hours. Cold compresses can reduce swelling and pain, decrease local bleeding, and create favorable conditions for wound healing.
Reasonable diet: Avoid eating within two hours after the operation. After two hours, you can have warm, cool and soft foods, such as rice porridge, yogurt, soft noodles, etc. Avoid eating overly hot, hard, spicy or irritating foods to prevent irritation to the wound. Try to avoid chewing food on the side where the tooth was extracted within one week after the operation to prevent food residue from entering the wound and causing infection.
Maintain oral hygiene: Do not brush your teeth or rinse your mouth within 24 hours after the operation to avoid disrupting the blood clot. After 24 hours, you can gently rinse your mouth with clean water or mouthwash to keep it clean. About a week after the operation, when the wound has initially healed, you can start brushing your teeth, but be careful to do it gently and avoid the wound.
Take medicine on time: Take anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving drugs strictly as prescribed by the doctor on time. Do not stop taking the medicine or increase or decrease the dosage by yourself. Anti-inflammatory drugs can effectively prevent infection, and painkillers can relieve pain and ensure the smooth recovery of the wound.
Conclusion:
If an infection occurs after wisdom tooth extraction, there is no need to panic. Corresponding treatment measures should be taken in a timely manner according to the severity of the infection. At the same time, doing a good job in various preventive measures before, during and after the operation can greatly reduce the occurrence rate of infection. If you still have any questions about infection after wisdom tooth extraction, feel free to consult a professional dentist at any time to receive accurate guidance and assistance.
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