Over The Counter Medicine For Wisdom Tooth Infection
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop in the mouth. They usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Although wisdom teeth can be a valuable asset to the mouth when healthy, they often cause problems like crowding, decay, and infections when they don't emerge properly.
One of the most common problems associated with wisdom teeth is an infection. Wisdom tooth infection occurs when bacteria enter the gums surrounding the tooth, causing inflammation and pain. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the body and cause serious complications. In this article, we will discuss the over the counter medicine for wisdom tooth infection.
Symptoms of Wisdom Tooth Infection
Wisdom tooth infection can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Pain and swelling in the gums and jaw
- Difficulty opening the mouth
- Bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
- Redness and tenderness in the gums
- Fever and chills
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see a dentist or doctor immediately. They will be able to diagnose the infection and provide appropriate treatment.
Over The Counter Medicine for Wisdom Tooth Infection
There are several over the counter medicines that can help relieve the symptoms of wisdom tooth infection. These include:
- Painkillers: Over the counter painkillers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help relieve the pain and reduce inflammation associated with wisdom tooth infection. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed the maximum daily dose.
- Antibiotics: Although antibiotics require a prescription, some dentists may prescribe them for wisdom tooth infection. Antibiotics can help fight the bacteria causing the infection and prevent it from spreading.
- Saltwater rinse: A saltwater rinse is a simple and effective way to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Mix a teaspoon of salt with a glass of warm water and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
- Clove oil: Clove oil has natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Apply a few drops of clove oil to a cotton ball and place it on the affected area for 15-20 minutes.
- Mouthwash: An antiseptic mouthwash can help reduce bacteria in the mouth and prevent further infection. Look for a mouthwash that contains chlorhexidine or hydrogen peroxide.
It is important to note that these over the counter medicines can only provide temporary relief from the symptoms of wisdom tooth infection. It is essential to see a dentist or doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Preventing Wisdom Tooth Infection
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to prevent wisdom tooth infection:
- Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss regularly to remove food particles and bacteria from your mouth.
- Visit the dentist regularly: Regular dental check-ups can help detect problems like wisdom tooth infection early and prevent them from becoming worse.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking can weaken the immune system and make it difficult for the body to fight infections.
- Avoid sugary and acidic foods: Sugary and acidic foods can promote the growth of bacteria in the mouth and increase the risk of infection.
- Be aware of the signs and symptoms of wisdom tooth infection: If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned earlier, see a dentist or doctor immediately.
Conclusion
Wisdom tooth infection can be a painful and uncomfortable experience. Over the counter medicines like painkillers, antibiotics, saltwater rinse, clove oil, and mouthwash can help relieve the symptoms of wisdom tooth infection. However, it is important to see a dentist or doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Prevention is always better than cure, and practicing good oral hygiene, visiting the dentist regularly, avoiding smoking, and being aware of the signs and symptoms of wisdom tooth infection can help prevent it from occurring.
