66 Where There Is No Dentist 2012
TAKING CARE OF MOLAR TEETH
We often notice front teeth growing in, but not the back ones. Back teeth
molars are not so obvious. Swelling on the face can be either a new molar
growing in or an abscess. So, to help you to decide, look at the tooth for a
cavity and at the gums beside it for a gum bubble.
When you see a swollen face, look for the two signs of an abscess.
But if the person is young (16–22 years), it often is not an abscess. The third
permanent molar tooth may be growing in at the back of her mouth. As the
tooth grows, it cuts through the skin. Just as a dirty cut on a person’s hand
can get infected, the cut gum around her new tooth also can get infected,
causing a swollen face.
Look behind her back teeth.
See the red swollen skin on
top of the new tooth.
If there is enough space for the tooth, it will grow in by itself. It only needs
time. Before acting, decide how serious the problem is.
If there is no swelling and she can open her mouth, explain to her what is
happening and what she can do herself to reduce infection and toughen the
gums. The best medicine is to rinse warm salt water over the sore area. A good
home remedy is to rinse until the tooth grows all the way into the mouth.
If it does appear serious (severe pain, swelling, not able to open the mouth),
see pages 93 to 94 for further treatment.