Taylor's PERICORONITIS outline

Pericoronitis -

I. Pericoronitis is an inflammation of the soft tissue associated with a partially erupted tooth.
A. The inflammation can be acute or generalized.
B. The tissue effected is that which surrounds the coronal portion of a tooth.
C. The most commonly effected teeth are the mandibular third molars.

II. The operculum is the flap of soft tissue which either partially or completely covers the associated tooth.

III. Pericoronitis creates a nidus for bacteria to grow and multiply.
A. Food debris and bacteria become trapped between the tooth and the inflamed tissue.
B. The area remains warm, dark and moist, encouraging microorganisms to thrive.

IV. Signs and Symptoms of Pericoronitis:
A. Pericoronitis is extremely painful due to swelling of the operculum.
B. The tissue will become erythmatic in color.
C. Exudate begins, creating a foul taste and smell.
D. Severe, long-term cases will involve swelling of the cheek.

V. Who is at risk?
A. Young adults are most at risk due to the eruption of wisdom teeth.
B. Military personnel between the ages of 17-26 are reporting serious problems with pericoronitis.
20% of dental emergencies reported by the military in World War II were due to pericoronitis.

VI. Treatment of the condition depends on the severity of the case.
A. The extraction of the third molars is often practiced in mouths without room to harbor wisdom teeth.
B. Debridement performed by the hygienist with the use of topical anesthetic,
C. Irrigation using diluted hydrogen peroxide, chlorhexidine or warm water.
D. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics if the patient is unable to perform adequate home care.