As a wisdom tooth starts to push through the gum, the flap of gum overlying it becomes inflamed and swollen. This usually results in pain, bad breath, a swollen neck and often discharge (pus) oozing from the gum. The ability to open your mouth can become limited and swallowing can be painful. You can feel generally unwell and may run a fever. It may settle down with mouth rinses and antibiotics, but until the wisdom tooth is removed, infection is likely to re-occur.