If your dentist has recommended that you have your wisdom teeth, you're in a group with about 85% of the US population. One of the reasons that so many people need to have their wisdom teeth removed is that there just isn't enough room in their mouth for the additional molars. Once your wisdom teeth have been removed, your dentist will give you specific after-care instructions that you'll need to follow. Failure to follow the instructions can lead to infection at the wound site. Here are four signs of infection you should be aware of. 

Increase in Pain

Once you've had your wisdom teeth removed, you're going to experience pain and discomfort. Be sure to fill the prescription for pain medication that your dentist will provide you with. The pain should begin to go away after the first few days. If the pain doesn't go away, or it continues to get worse, you should contact your dentist. This could be a sign of infection.

Continuous Swelling

Your mouth and gums are going to swell after the procedure. You might even notice significant swelling around the wound site. In most cases, the swelling will decrease after the first day. If the swelling doesn't go away, or the swelling increases, you should see your dentist right away. This is particularly true if the swelling spreads to your neck or throat, and interferes with your ability to breathe.

Foul Odors

Foul odors are a sign of infection. If you notice bad breath, or develop a bad taste in your mouth, you may have an infection at the wound site. Rinse your mouth with salt water several times a day. If the foul odor continues, or doesn't go away after you rinse your mouth, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible. If the foul odor is accompanied by discharge where the wisdom teeth were removed, you'll need to visit your dentist immediately.

High Fevers That Won't Go Away

If you develop a fever after having your wisdom teeth removed, it may be a sign of infection. If no one in your home has been sick, try taking a fever reducer. If the fever doesn't go away with medication, contact your dentist.

It's important that you follow the after-care instructions that your dentist will give you when you have your wisdom teeth removed. If you notice any of the signs described above, contact a dentist like Hernandez Dental. You may have an infection inside your mouth.