When an impacted wisdom tooth starts to push through the gum, an infection can start around the top of the tooth. Infection and inflammation (swollen, red gums) can cause pain, swelling, and jaw stiffness. The infection can cause bad breath and an unpleasant taste. Swallowing may be painful. The person may feel generally unwell.



If the infection is not immediately untreated, it sometimes can even lead to a life threatening problem. The infection can spread to under the tongue and throat leading to inability to breath. In these kind of situation, emergency hospitalisation would be necessary.