II. Definition
- Acute, localized infection around crown of partially erupted tooth
- Wisdom teeth (third molars) most often affected
III. Pathophysiology
- Plaque and debris accumulate under gum line
IV. Symptoms
- Foul taste and halitosis
- Localized pain, worse with chewing or Swallowing
V. Signs
- Edema around flap overlying erupted tooth
- Regional Lymphadenopathy of the Head and Neck
- Trismus may occur
VI. Management
- Localized cases
- Mouthwash with warm salty water
- Irrigate under flap of mucosa
- Chlorhexidine Gluconate 0.12% Rinse (Peridex)
- Hexetidine 0.1% Rinse (Oraldene)
- Refractory or severe cases
- Dental referral as soon as possible
- Oral Penicillin
- Adequate Analgesics (e.g. NSAIDs or mild Opioid)