Can pericoronitis cause pain and limit mouth opening?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 19 years old. I have a new tooth that is erupting. But, the tooth is covered with soft tissue, and the area is painful to touch. Also, I am unable to chew food on that side, and sometimes, I am unable to open my mouth. What should I do?

Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Wisdom tooth starts erupting between 18 to 21 years of age. A partially erupted tooth is covered with soft tissue called gingiva that causes food lodgment between the tooth and gums. The condition is called pericoronitis. A tooth impacted in the bone due to a lack of space, malalignment, or horizontally located tooth should be removed before it causes any trouble. Otherwise, the tooth usually erupts on its own.

I suggest an IOPA (intraoral periapical radiograph) to detect the location of the tooth. I suggest you keep the area clean by gently massaging in an upside-down direction. Also, gargle with lukewarm saline after every meal.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.