Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth at the back of the mouth. These teeth typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood, often causing discomfort or pain in the process. The pain associated with wisdom teeth can vary in intensity and duration. It may arise due to several reasons, including impaction, infection, or simple irritation caused by the eruption of the teeth. If your wisdom teeth start hurting, it is crucial to understand the potential causes and take appropriate action to address the issue.
In this article, we will explore what to do when your wisdom teeth start hurting, how to identify the source of the pain, and what steps you can take to alleviate the discomfort. We will also discuss when it is necessary to seek professional dental care and how to manage the pain effectively in the meantime.
What to Do When Your Wisdom Teeth Start Hurting？
Before delving into solutions, it’s essential to understand the potential causes of wisdom tooth pain. Not all pain from wisdom teeth is the same, and the underlying cause can influence the treatment options available.
1. Wisdom Teeth Eruption
Wisdom teeth typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, although the timing can vary. When the teeth begin to push through the gums, they can cause swelling and discomfort, as the mouth may not have enough space to accommodate them. This can result in aching, tenderness, or throbbing pain in the back of the mouth.
In some cases, the gums around the emerging wisdom teeth may become inflamed, making them sensitive and painful to touch. This type of pain is typically temporary and may subside as the tooth fully erupts. However, the discomfort may be more severe in some individuals, particularly if the teeth are impacted.
2. Impacted Wisdom Teeth
An impacted wisdom tooth occurs when the tooth does not have enough space to emerge fully or grows at an incorrect angle. This condition can lead to significant pain and discomfort as the tooth presses against surrounding teeth or the jawbone. Impacted wisdom teeth can also cause swelling and infection in the surrounding tissues.
The pain associated with impacted wisdom teeth may be persistent, and in some cases, it can radiate to the jaw, head, and neck. Infections or abscesses may also develop, leading to increased pain and discomfort.
3. Infection or Gum Disease
If a wisdom tooth is partially erupted, it can create an opening in the gum that allows food particles and bacteria to enter. This can result in infection or gum disease, leading to pain, swelling, and sometimes a bad taste or odor in the mouth. If an infection develops, it can cause throbbing pain that worsens over time and may require immediate medical attention.
4. Cysts or Tumors
In rare cases, cysts or tumors can form around an impacted wisdom tooth. These growths can cause swelling, infection, and severe pain. If left untreated, cysts can damage the surrounding teeth or bone structure, making early intervention critical.
Immediate Steps to Relieve Wisdom Tooth Pain
If your wisdom teeth start hurting, there are several steps you can take at home to alleviate the discomfort. While these measures can provide temporary relief, they should not replace professional dental care if the pain persists or worsens.
1. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
One of the first steps in managing wisdom tooth pain is to use over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol), can help reduce pain and inflammation. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage instructions on the medication packaging to avoid overuse.
These medications can provide temporary relief, allowing you to manage the discomfort while awaiting professional evaluation or treatment. However, if the pain continues or worsens, you should seek dental care.
2. Saltwater Rinse
A simple and effective remedy for wisdom tooth pain is a warm saltwater rinse. Saltwater helps reduce inflammation, cleanse the affected area, and promote healing. To make a saltwater rinse, dissolve one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Gently swish the solution around your mouth for about 30 seconds, ensuring it reaches the painful area around the wisdom tooth. Repeat this process two to three times a day, particularly after eating, to help alleviate pain and reduce swelling.
3. Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Wrap ice in a towel or use a cold gel pack and apply it to the painful area for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. This can provide immediate relief, especially if the pain is due to swelling or irritation in the gums.
Make sure not to apply ice directly to the skin to avoid frostbite, and always give your skin a break between ice applications.
4. Clove Oil
Clove oil has natural anesthetic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate tooth pain. To use clove oil, soak a cotton ball or swab in the oil and apply it directly to the painful area of your gums. The numbing effect of the oil can provide temporary relief. However, it’s important to use clove oil in moderation, as it can be potent and may cause irritation if overused.
When to See a Dentist
While home remedies can help manage wisdom tooth pain temporarily, there are situations where it is important to seek professional dental care. If any of the following circumstances occur, you should contact a dentist or oral surgeon as soon as possible:
1. Severe or Persistent Pain
If your wisdom tooth pain is severe or lasts for more than a few days, it may indicate an underlying issue such as infection, impaction, or gum disease. In these cases, a dentist can perform an examination and take X-rays to determine the cause of the pain and recommend the appropriate treatment.
2. Swelling or Infection
Swelling, redness, and the presence of pus are signs of an infection. If your wisdom tooth pain is accompanied by these symptoms, you may have an abscess or infection in the surrounding gum tissue. Infections can worsen quickly and lead to complications, so it is important to seek treatment promptly.
3. Difficulty Opening the Mouth
If the pain from your wisdom teeth makes it difficult to open your mouth or swallow, this could be a sign of infection or impaction. A dentist will need to evaluate the situation and determine whether the wisdom teeth should be extracted or treated to prevent further complications.
4. Fever or Other Systemic Symptoms
A fever, chills, or other signs of illness in conjunction with wisdom tooth pain are concerning and may indicate a more serious infection that requires immediate dental attention. Infections around the wisdom teeth can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated, so it’s crucial to see a dentist or oral surgeon if you experience these symptoms.
Treatment Options for Wisdom Tooth Pain
If the pain from your wisdom teeth is due to a more serious issue, such as impaction or infection, your dentist will discuss treatment options with you. Some possible treatments include:
1. Antibiotics
If an infection is present, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help clear the infection. Antibiotics can help reduce the pain and prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of the body.
2. Extraction of Wisdom Teeth
In cases where the wisdom teeth are impacted, infected, or causing significant pain, removal may be the best option. Wisdom tooth extraction is a common procedure, and it can provide relief from pain and prevent future dental issues. The procedure is typically performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the extraction.
3. Surgical Intervention for Cysts or Tumors
If your wisdom tooth pain is caused by a cyst or tumor, surgical intervention may be required. Your dentist or oral surgeon will perform an assessment and recommend the best course of action, which may include the removal of the cyst or the impacted wisdom tooth itself.
Conclusion
Wisdom tooth pain is a common dental issue that many individuals experience as their third molars begin to emerge. While some discomfort is normal during the eruption of wisdom teeth, persistent or severe pain may indicate a more serious problem, such as impaction, infection, or gum disease. By using home remedies such as saltwater rinses, cold compresses, and over-the-counter pain relievers, you can manage mild discomfort. However, if the pain becomes severe, persistent, or is accompanied by swelling, fever, or difficulty opening your mouth, it is important to seek professional dental care.
A dentist can assess the situation, provide the appropriate treatment, and help you determine whether wisdom tooth removal is necessary. Early intervention can prevent further complications and ensure that your dental health remains intact.
Related topics: