RT Book, Section A1 Jauch, Edward C. A1 Valdez, J. Amadeo A2 Knoop, Kevin J. A2 Stack, Lawrence B. A2 Storrow, Alan B. A2 Thurman, R. Jason SR Print(0) ID 1181040624 T1 Pericoronal Abscess T2 The Atlas of Emergency Medicine, 5e YR 2021 FD 2021 PB McGraw-Hill PP New York, NY SN 9781260134940 LK accessemergencymedicine.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=1181040624 RD 2024/03/28 AB A partially erupted or impacted 3rd molar (wisdom tooth) is the most common site of pericoronitis and pericoronal abscesses. The accumulation of food and debris between the overlying gingival flap and crown of the tooth creates a focus for pericoronitis and subsequent abscess formation. The gingival flap becomes irritated and inflamed, and the tissue is repeatedly traumatized by the opposing molar tooth. The inflamed gingival process may eventually become infected and form an abscess. Foul taste, inability to close the jaw, and fever may occur. Swelling of the cheek and angle of the jaw and localized lymphadenopathy are also characteristic. More advanced disease may spread posteriorly to the base of the tongue, oropharyngeal area, and deep cervical spaces with resulting Ludwig angina and peritonsillar abscesses.