Can Wisdom Teeth Cause Throat Infection?
January 5, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Wisdom teeth themselves don’t directly cause throat infections. However, impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth can create conditions that increase the risk of throat infections or contribute to throat discomfort indirectly.
When wisdom teeth don’t fully emerge properly or become impacted (trapped within the jawbone or gums), they can create pockets where food particles and bacteria get trapped. These areas can be challenging to clean thoroughly, leading to bacterial growth and potential infection in the surrounding gums. In severe cases, this infection can spread to adjacent areas, including the throat.
The presence of infected or inflamed gums around impacted wisdom teeth can cause discomfort, pain, and swelling in the jaw and throat areas. It’s possible for the infection to spread to the throat in rare instances, especially if the immune system is compromised or if the infection is left untreated for an extended period.
Furthermore, the pressure and positioning of impacted wisdom teeth can sometimes lead to inflammation or irritation in the throat area due to their proximity to the tonsils or neighboring tissues.
If you suspect that your wisdom teeth might be contributing to throat discomfort or infection, it’s essential to consult with a dentist or an oral surgeon for evaluation and appropriate treatment. They can assess the condition of your wisdom teeth and gums, recommend potential treatment options (which might include extraction if necessary), and address any associated infections to prevent complications or further spread of infection to the throat or surrounding areas.