A patient presents with a partially erupted lower left third molar, with pain and red, swollen gingiva on the left side (pericoronitis). Which of the following would you NOT do?

Correct answer: A. Prescribe antifungal medication

• A. CORRECT — Antifungal medication is NOT indicated for pericoronitis. Pericoronitis is a bacterial (not fungal) infection of the pericoronal tissue. Antifungals would have no therapeutic benefit.
• B. INCORRECT — Antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin or metronidazole) are indicated when pericoronitis presents with systemic signs or severe local infection.
• C. INCORRECT — Extraction is a definitive treatment for pericoronitis, especially for lower third molars that cannot fully erupt.
• D. INCORRECT — Irrigation under the operculum (with chlorhexidine or saline) is a first-line treatment for pericoronitis, removing food debris and bacteria.