Pericoronitis
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Pericoronitis is a common problem in young adults with partial tooth impactions. It occurs when the wisdom tooth has failed to erupt completely through the gum bed, allowing bacteria into an open space around the tooth, causing infection. Common symptoms include a swollen lump near the eruption site, stiffness of the jaw, bad odour or taste in the mouth, swollen lymphs, and pain in the general area that may also run down the entire mandible or neck.
Treatment is usually provision of antibiotics to control the infection. In cases where pericoronitis has recurred, with two or more episodes in the last year, removal of the impacted tooth is indicated.
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