Sorry to hear that you are experiencing such discomfort at the moment! As you are 18 years old, this a prime age for wisdom teeth to be growing out ie erupting and they usually cause discomfort as they are the last ones to erupt so there is usually no space for them to come out straight.
As a result, bacteria accumulates with the 'awkardly' angled (impacted) wisdom teeth and it sometimes causes something called pericoronitis. This is gum inflammation around the wisdom tooth. The infection can cause a bad smell and spread to the lymph nodes on the same side if not treated fast enough which sounds like what you are going through.
Your options for this include
1. Consultation and Antibiotics (As soon as possible)
Visit a dentist you are comfortable with, get a recommendation on whether this wisdom tooth should be removed or not. An Xray will most likely be needed to check the angulation and to see if there is any underlying infection or cavities within the jaw bone and tooth.
2. Wisdom tooth extraction
Generally not recommended when there is an active infection but sometimes it can be done. This is a case by case basis. For surgical extractions, you are able to use personal or next of kin's medisave ie your parents medisave if needed provided you are PR / Singaporean.
3. Deep cleaning around the gum
Sometimes it could due to an accumulation of bacteria and food within the area so a deep cleaning can help but is usually not the long term solution.
My best advise to you is to first go for a consultation with a dentist and get the medication needed first. Don't wait any longer as the infection needs to be treated as soon as possible before it gets worse.
All the best and I hope you feel better really soon!
Warm Regards,
Dr Beth
