Pericoronitis – Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

If you’ve ever felt swelling, pain or discomfort around your wisdom teeth, chances are you’ve heard the term pericoronitis. It’s one of the most common dental conditions linked with partially erupted wisdom teeth and, if left untreated, it can affect your oral health and daily comfort. Understanding pericoronitis symptoms, causes and treatment can help you take timely action and avoid complications.

In this detailed guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know from what pericoronitis really is, to how it’s treated and even insights about wisdom teeth removal cost in Chennai. Let’s dive right in.

What is Pericoronitis?  

Pericoronitis is the inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding a partially erupted wisdom tooth, usually the lower third molars. When the tooth does not fully break through the gum line, a flap of gum tissue (called an operculum) can remain over it. Food particles, bacteria and debris get trapped under this flap, leading to infection, swelling and pain.

Pericoronitis Symptoms: How to Spot the Condition

Recognizing the signs early is important to prevent the infection from worsening. Common pericoronitis symptoms include:  

• Red, swollen or tender gums around the wisdom tooth.
• Pain that may radiate to the jaw, ear or throat.
• Difficulty in opening the mouth (trismus).
• Bad breath or a foul taste in the mouth.
• Pus discharge in severe cases.
• Swelling of lymph nodes under the jaw.
• General discomfort while chewing or biting.

In some cases, patients may also experience fever or difficulty swallowing, which indicates the infection has spread beyond the gum tissue and requires urgent care.

Pericoronitis Causes: Why Does It Happen?

The underlying reason is usually the partial eruption of wisdom teeth but multiple factors contribute to the onset of pericoronitis. Here are the most common pericoronitis causes:

• Partially erupted wisdom tooth: Creates a flap of gum tissue that traps food and bacteria.
• Poor oral hygiene: Makes it easier for infection to develop.
• Crowded teeth: Reduce space for proper eruption, causing impaction.
• Stress or low immunity: Weakens the body’s defense against bacterial infections.
• Repeated trauma: Opposing teeth biting into the gum flap can irritate the tissue.

Understanding these causes helps in both prevention and planning effective treatment.

Types of Pericoronitis

There are two main forms of pericoronitis:

Acute Pericoronitis:

• Sudden onset of pain and swelling.
• May include pus discharge and fever.
• Requires immediate attention.

Chronic Pericoronitis:

• Symptoms come and go.
• Usually mild discomfort, bad breath or gum tenderness.
• Can flare up into acute pericoronitis if not treated.

How is Pericoronitis Diagnosed?

A dentist usually diagnoses pericoronitis through:

• Visual Examination: Checking for swollen gums, pus and the position of wisdom teeth.
• Dental X-rays: To see if the wisdom tooth is impacted or if there is insufficient space for eruption.

This helps decide whether simple cleaning, gum flap removal or wisdom teeth removal is the best course of action.

Pericoronitis Treatment: Effective Ways to Manage the Condition

The right pericoronitis treatment depends on the severity of symptoms. Treatments usually include the following:

1. Immediate Relief for Acute Cases

• Irrigation of the gum pocket to remove trapped debris.
• Prescribing antibiotics if the infection has spread. 
• Painkillers and anti-inflammatory medication for swelling.

2. Local Treatment

• Cleaning the operculum (gum flap).
• Using antiseptic rinses like chlorhexidine.
• Advising warm saltwater rinses at home.

3. Surgical Options

• Operculectomy: Removal of the gum flap to prevent further infection.
• Wisdom Tooth Extraction: If the tooth is impacted or recurrent infections occur, extraction is the most effective solution.

4. Long-term Prevention

• Maintaining excellent oral hygiene.
• Regular dental check-ups.
• Considering wisdom tooth removal before recurrent infections occur.

When Should You Consider Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Not every case of pericoronitis needs tooth extraction but you may need wisdom teeth removal if:

• The infection keeps coming back.
• The wisdom tooth is impacted or has no room to erupt.
• Adjacent teeth are being damaged.
• Pain and swelling interfere with daily life.

Your dentist will guide you based on X-rays and the severity of infection.

Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost in Chennai

One of the most common concerns for patients is the cost. The wisdom teeth removal cost in Chennai can vary depending on:

• Whether it’s a simple or surgical extraction.
• The complexity of impaction (vertical, angular, horizontal).
• Diagnostic procedures (X-rays, scans).
• Anesthesia and surgical facilities used.

On average, the cost in Chennai ranges between INR 3,000 to INR 10,000 per tooth but complex surgical cases may cost more. Consulting a reputed dental clinic in Chennai ensures you get accurate estimates and safe treatment.

Possible Complications of Untreated Pericoronitis

Ignoring the condition may lead to:

• Spread of infection to nearby tissues.
• Abscess formation.
• Damage to adjacent teeth or bone.
• Difficulty in chewing, swallowing or speaking.
• In rare cases, serious systemic infections.

This is why timely consultation is always advised.

Preventing Pericoronitis: Best Practices

You can lower your risk by following these preventive steps:

• Brush and floss regularly to keep food debris away.
• Rinse with antiseptic mouthwash.
• Visit your dentist for regular check-ups.
• Pay special attention to cleaning the area around partially erupted wisdom teeth.
• Discuss preventive extraction of wisdom teeth with your dentist if space is limited.

Why Professional Care Matters: While home remedies like warm saltwater rinses may provide temporary relief, pericoronitis requires professional care to prevent complications. Choosing an experienced dental clinic in Chennai ensures accurate diagnosis, safe treatment and long-term oral health.

Taking Action for Healthy Gums: Expert Advice on Pericoronitis!

Pericoronitis is a condition that should not be ignored. By understanding pericoronitis symptoms, causes and treatment you can recognize the warning signs early and seek timely help. In many cases, wisdom tooth extraction becomes the best long-term solution to avoid repeated infections.

If you are experiencing persistent pain, swelling or discomfort around your wisdom teeth, consult a trusted dental expert. Radiant Dental Care offers advanced diagnostic tools, expert consultation and safe treatment options to help you manage pericoronitis effectively. With the right guidance you can protect your oral health and restore comfort.

Your smile deserves care and attention. Reach out to Radiant Dental Care to discuss your symptoms and explore the best treatment plan for lasting relief.  

Frequently Asked Questions: 

What are the common symptoms of pericoronitis?

Ans. Swelling, pain near the wisdom tooth, bad breath and difficulty opening the mouth are common pericoronitis symptoms.

What usually causes pericoronitis?

Ans. It often happens due to a partially erupted wisdom tooth where food and bacteria get trapped under the gum flap.

How is pericoronitis treated?

Ans. Treatment may include cleaning, antibiotics, warm saltwater rinses or in severe cases, wisdom tooth extraction.

Is wisdom teeth removal always necessary for pericoronitis?

Ans. Not always. If the infection keeps recurring or the tooth is impacted, extraction is usually recommended.

What is the wisdom teeth removal cost in Chennai?

Ans. The cost typically ranges from ₹3,000 to ₹10,000 per tooth, depending on whether it’s a simple or surgical extraction.