Symptoms of pulpitis and pericoronitis of wisdom teeth

Pulpitis and pericoronitis of wisdom teeth are two common oral diseases, each with distinct clinical manifestations. The symptoms of pulpitis mainly include local swelling, fever, spontaneous pain, and nocturnal pain. The pain may worsen in response to thermal stimuli and may be accompanied by reduced biting force, pain on biting, tooth mobility, or even tooth loss. Pulpitis primarily occurs in individuals with poor oral hygiene or those who frequently consume acidic foods. If left untreated, it may lead to acute apical periodontitis. Pericoronitis refers specifically to inflammation of the soft tissues surrounding the crown of the third molar (wisdom tooth), commonly affecting young adults aged 18 to 25. Its main symptoms include swelling and pain in the soft tissues around the impacted tooth crown. If the inflammation affects the masticatory muscles, it may cause limited mouth opening and painful swallowing. As the condition progresses, systemic symptoms such as headache, elevated body temperature, and loss of appetite may also develop. Pericoronitis is mostly caused by incomplete eruption or impaction of the wisdom tooth, which allows food debris and bacteria to accumulate easily, leading to inflammation.