I am glad you have asked this question as it sounds like you are probably on the verge of choosing a dentist to help with this long standing problem of chronic wisdom tooth infection.
Having that bit of flesh over the back of the wisdom tooth typically allows food to get stuck underneath. This leads to inflammation and frequently infection. Whilst antibiotics are a great way to 'buy time', I would advise thinking of a more permanent solution ie: removal of the wisdom tooth.
Should you choose to leave this impacted wisdom tooth much longer, it can cause a few other issues including decay of the tooth in front of it. In my experience the worst sort of sequel to this constant swelling is facial swelling and a progressive difficulty in opening the mouth. Some patients get dehydrated too and they present with very dry flaky lips.
If you are particularly nervous about the process of removal, perhaps you should consider helpful adjuncts including IV sedation and General Anaesthesia as they truly make the journey far much more bearable.
Do remember that repeated use of antibiotics can cause the bacteria in your mouth and body to develop antibiotic resistance. Hence it is wiser to find a solution sooner than later.
Hope this helps,
Dr Samintharaj Kumar
