Unlike gum disease, which affects most areas of the mouth, pericoronitis causes gum inflammation in the area that surrounds the top of the tooth. It usually affects the third molars which are the teeth in the most rearward of the mouth or closest to the throat. In some cases, pericoronitis can occur chronically or acutely. Mild inflammation in the affected area is referred to as chronic. When symptoms progress to swelling, pain and fever, this is referred to as acute pericoronitis. At this stage, it usually signifies an infection that is starting to spread.

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