The emergence of wisdom teeth is a common experience that many people encounter in their late teens or early twenties.
Often referred to as the third molars, wisdom teeth can cause a variety of symptoms as they make their way through the gums. Among these symptoms, gum pain is one of the most frequently reported. This article explores why gums hurt during the eruption of wisdom teeth, the factors that contribute to this pain, and the steps you can take to manage the discomfort.
When Do Wisdom Teeth Typically Emerge?
Wisdom teeth typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, though this can vary. Some people may experience their wisdom teeth coming in later, while others might see them emerge earlier. The timing can depend on several factors, including genetics and the size of the jaw.
Why Do Gums Hurt When Wisdom Teeth Are Coming In?
Gum pain is a common symptom associated with the eruption of wisdom teeth. The pain is usually due to the pressure and inflammation caused by the teeth pushing through the gums. Below are some of the primary reasons why gums hurt during this process:
Lack of Space in the Jaw
One of the most common reasons for gum pain during wisdom tooth eruption is the lack of space in the jaw. Most modern humans have smaller jaws compared to our ancestors, which means there might not be enough room for the wisdom teeth to emerge properly. When there isn’t enough space, the teeth can become impacted, meaning they get stuck in the gums or grow at an angle, leading to significant discomfort and pain in the gums.
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Inflammation and Infection
As wisdom teeth push through the gums, they can create small openings where bacteria can enter, leading to inflammation and infection. This condition, known as pericoronitis, is particularly common when the tooth is only partially erupted. The surrounding gum tissue can become swollen, red, and tender, leading to considerable pain.
Pressure on Surrounding Teeth
When wisdom teeth emerge, they can exert pressure on the adjacent teeth, particularly if there is insufficient space in the jaw. This pressure can cause not only gum pain but also discomfort in the surrounding teeth and even lead to shifting of other teeth, exacerbating the pain.
Eruption Cysts
In some cases, a cyst can form around a developing wisdom tooth. This fluid-filled sac can cause pain in the gums and surrounding tissues. Although cysts are typically benign, they can cause damage to the jawbone and adjacent teeth if left untreated.
Symptoms Accompanying Gum Pain During Wisdom Tooth Eruption
Gum pain associated with wisdom teeth is often accompanied by other symptoms. Recognizing these symptoms can help you determine whether your discomfort is related to your wisdom teeth or another dental issue.
Swelling of the Gums
Swelling is a common symptom that accompanies gum pain when wisdom teeth are coming in. The area around the emerging tooth may become inflamed and swollen, making it difficult to chew or even open your mouth fully.
Tenderness and Bleeding
As the wisdom teeth push through the gums, the tissue can become tender and more prone to bleeding. This tenderness can make brushing and flossing uncomfortable, leading to further irritation.
Bad Breath and Unpleasant Taste
Infection or inflammation around the wisdom teeth can lead to bad breath and a foul taste in the mouth. This is often due to the accumulation of bacteria in the affected area, which can exacerbate the pain and discomfort.
Difficulty Opening the Mouth
In some cases, the inflammation and swelling caused by emerging wisdom teeth can make it difficult to open the mouth fully. This condition, known as trismus, can interfere with eating and speaking, adding to the discomfort.
Managing Gum Pain From Wisdom Teeth
While gum pain from wisdom teeth can be uncomfortable, several strategies can help manage the symptoms and reduce discomfort. Here are some effective ways to alleviate the pain:
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
Non-prescription pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
These medications can be particularly effective if the pain is mild to moderate.
Saltwater Rinses
Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria around the affected area. This can be especially beneficial if the gum tissue around the wisdom teeth is swollen or infected.
Cold Compresses
Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain.
This is particularly useful in the early stages of wisdom tooth eruption when the pain and swelling are most intense.
Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial when your wisdom teeth are coming in. Brush and floss regularly, taking care to clean around the emerging teeth as much as possible. Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can also help reduce bacteria and prevent infection.
Avoiding Hard or Chewy Foods
During the eruption of your wisdom teeth, it’s best to avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that could irritate the gums further. Stick to soft foods and liquids until the pain subsides.
When to See A Dentist
While mild gum pain from wisdom teeth is common and often manageable at home, there are times when professional intervention is necessary. If you experience severe pain, significant swelling, or signs of infection such as fever, it’s essential to see a dentist as soon as possible.
Potential Complications from Wisdom Tooth Eruption
Although many people go through the process of wisdom tooth eruption without major issues, complications can arise.
Understanding these potential complications can help you identify when to seek dental care.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth occur when the teeth are unable to emerge properly due to a lack of space in the jaw. This can lead to pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth may need to be surgically removed to prevent further complications.
Cysts and Tumors
As mentioned earlier, cysts can form around an emerging wisdom tooth, potentially leading to jawbone damage and displacement of other teeth. While rare, tumors can also develop in association with impacted wisdom teeth, requiring surgical intervention.
Crowding of Teeth
If there isn’t enough space in the jaw for the wisdom teeth to emerge properly, they can push against other teeth, leading to crowding. This can affect the alignment of your teeth and may necessitate orthodontic treatment to correct.
Gum Disease and Cavities
Partially erupted wisdom teeth are more prone to infection and decay due to their position in the mouth, making them harder to clean. This can lead to gum disease and cavities, further contributing to pain and discomfort.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction as a Solution
For many people, the discomfort and potential complications associated with wisdom teeth are best addressed through extraction. Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that can prevent future dental problems and alleviate pain.
When Is Extraction Necessary?
Dentists typically recommend wisdom tooth extraction if the teeth are impacted, causing pain, or if there is a high risk of future complications such as infection or damage to other teeth. In some cases, even if the wisdom teeth are not causing immediate problems, extraction may be recommended as a preventative measure.
Conclusion
Gum pain during the eruption of wisdom teeth is a common and often uncomfortable experience. Understanding the reasons behind the pain, recognizing the accompanying symptoms, and knowing how to manage the discomfort can help you navigate this challenging time. While some discomfort is normal, it’s important to be aware of potential complications and to seek professional dental care if necessary. Wisdom tooth extraction may be the best solution for those experiencing significant pain or at risk for future dental issues.