Pericoronitis occur as a result of a partially erupted tooth and thus, is common during the occurrence of the wisdom teeth or the third molars. Since the jaw is too small to accommodate these third molars, they tend to sit on the tooth socket improperly. This condition is referred as an impaction, wherein the unaccommodated tooth is impacted in the gum and a cavity is formed in the area. Eventually, leftover foods get into the cavity and bacteria may infest the region, causing pain that ranges from mild to severe one.

Common visible symptoms

There are some common symptoms of pericoronitis that you are feeling during the streak of pericoronitis, such as:

• Tender and swollen gum that makes it hard for you to chew food comfortably.
• Difficulty of opening the mouth as a result of jaw pain.
• Bad breath.
• Foul or sour taste in the mouth.
• Swollen lymph nodes in neck.
• Sore throat.

Natural treatment for pericoronitis at home

Pain caused by pericoronitis can be either mild or severe. While the severe symptoms should only be treated by a dentist, mild pain and discomfort can be helped with some natural treatments and remedies at home. These remedies are beneficial for keeping the pain minimal and preventing severe signs of infection. Some proven-effective home remedies for this gum problem include:

• Saline water treatment, which is done using a solution of warm water and salt. This solution gives a soothing effect on the pain and prevent infection from occurring at all. Salt contains natural anti-bacterial property that helps killing the infesting bacteria inside the cavity.
• Clove oil application, which contains natural anti-inflammatory property that helps bring down the swelling on gum and reduce the caused pain. To use the remedy, take a piece of cotton wool and soak it with a few drops of clove oil. Pack the infected gum with this cotton ball until the pain subsides.
• Ice massage, which can be done using an ice cube. The temperature of the ice helps soothe the pain and reduce the inflammation of the check and the gum. To do this, wrap an ice cube with a clean towel and massage it gently over your swelling cheek not more than 5 minutes. Give a 5-minute interval before rubbing another ice compress on the cheek.
• Good oral hygiene. It is very important to perform a good hygiene practice as this helps to get rid of causal bacteria infesting the cavity. Using soft-bristled toothbrush to brush the impacted area thoroughly helps getting rid of the accumulated leftover foods inside. Thus, it prevents any bacteria inside the cavity to grow further. Regular flossing with gentle tooth floss and non-alcohol mouthwash will also help control the signs of infection.

If those home remedies do not bring any progress to the problem and you notice severe conditions of the impacted tooth, it is important to see a dentist immediately, as the impaction may require more professional advice and treatment.