Do your wisdom teeth hurt? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. This is a very common situation. Many people between the ages of 17 and 25 experience pain and discomfort caused by emerging wisdom teeth. Teeth pain is a widespread problem that can negatively impact your daily life. What are the main causes of this pain? What are its symptoms? Most importantly, how can you deal with it?
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about wisdom teeth pain in detail. Let’s start by examining why these teeth can cause problems.
What Is Wisdom Teeth Pain?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the large teeth at the very back of the mouth that generally emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Commonly called wisdom teeth or third molars, there are usually four of them:
- Two in the upper jaw
- Two in the lower jaw
Wisdom teeth pain is the discomfort and aching sensation that can occur as these teeth come in or even afterward due to various reasons. Why do these teeth cause pain? The main reasons are:
- Not enough space in the jaw
- Impacted teeth that cannot fully emerge
- Misaligned growth positions
- Pressure on surrounding tissues
These situations can cause anything from mild discomfort to throbbing, severe pain. Sometimes teeth remain trapped under the gum and jawbone, putting pressure on nearby tissues and causing serious pain.
Causes of Pain
Wisdom teeth pain usually occurs due to insufficient space in the jaw, genetic factors, or abnormalities in the tooth’s position. Here are the most common causes:
1. Difficulty in Emerging (Impacted Teeth): When there is not enough space in the jaw for wisdom teeth, they may remain impacted or partially emerge, leading to:
- Pain and tenderness
- Swelling and pressure
- Irritation and infection in nearby tissues
2. Infection (Pericoronitis): Food particles and bacteria can accumulate around partially emerged wisdom teeth, leading to an infection called pericoronitis, which may cause:
- Severe pain and swelling
- Bad breath
- Difficulty swallowing and restricted jaw movement
3. Tooth Decay: Because wisdom teeth are at the back of the mouth, they are harder to brush and clean properly. This increases the risk of cavities, which can trigger pain.
4. Gum Inflammation (Gingivitis): Inflammation can occur in the gums around wisdom teeth. Gingivitis may cause:
- Swelling and redness
- Sensitivity and pain
- Bleeding gums
5. Misaligned Teeth: If teeth emerge at an angle or in the wrong position, they can:
- Put pressure on neighboring teeth, causing pain and crowding
- Irritate or injure the inside of the cheek
6. Cyst Formation: In rare cases, cysts can form around impacted wisdom teeth. These cysts can grow, exert pressure on the jawbone and nerves, and cause pain and damage to surrounding tissues.
The intensity and duration of pain vary based on the causes mentioned above. If you are experiencing such pain, consult a dentist for an evaluation.
How to Relieve Wisdom Teeth Pain
When your wisdom teeth hurt, it can reduce your quality of life and make daily activities difficult. However, there are some simple home remedies that may help relieve this pain. Keep in mind these are temporary solutions. If the pain is severe, you should see a dentist.
Home Remedies You Can Try:
- Clove Oil’s Natural Effect: Clove oil is known for its pain-relieving and antiseptic properties. Put a few drops on a cotton ball and gently apply it to the painful area. Do not swallow the oil.
- Soothing With Peppermint Tea: Brew peppermint tea and let it cool, then use it as a mouthwash or drink it. Peppermint tea can help ease the pain with its soothing effect.
- Cold Compress With an Ice Pack: Applying something cold can reduce pain and swelling. Wrap an ice pack in a towel and hold it against the painful side of your face for 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat as needed, but do not apply ice directly to your skin.
- Salt Water Rinse: A warm saltwater solution can help remove bacteria and reduce inflammation. Add half a teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth several times a day.
- The Antibacterial Power of Garlic: Garlic’s natural antibacterial properties can help reduce the risk of infection. Gently apply crushed garlic to the painful area. This method may contribute to reducing pain.
- Using Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may provide short-term relief. Follow the instructions carefully and consult a doctor if you have chronic conditions.
- Eating Soft Foods: Hard or difficult-to-chew foods may increase the pain. Instead, choose easily consumed foods like soup, yogurt, or pureed dishes.
- Maintaining Oral Hygiene: Do not neglect to brush your teeth, even if you are in pain. Use a soft toothbrush and gentle movements. Also, use dental floss to support oral hygiene.
The methods above offer short-term relief from wisdom teeth pain. If the pain is accompanied by swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing, remember to consult a dentist without delay. Professional help will provide a permanent solution based on the cause of the pain.
When Should Wisdom Teeth Pain Be Taken Seriously?
Although wisdom teeth pain can often be managed with simple methods, sometimes it can indicate serious health problems. If you experience any of the following symptoms, do not underestimate them and see a dentist immediately.
Signs to Watch Out For:
- Constant or Severe Pain: If the pain persists, worsens, or throbs despite home remedies, it may be due to an infection or a problem reaching the tooth root.
- High Fever: Pain accompanied by fever indicates your body is fighting an infection. This suggests a risk of the infection spreading to the bloodstream, requiring urgent care.
- Swelling: Significant swelling in the face, jaw, or cheek can indicate an abscess or infection. If swelling increases, it can put pressure on surrounding tissues, causing serious complications.
- Difficulty Swallowing or Opening Your Mouth: If you have trouble opening your mouth or swallowing, there is a high risk that the infection is spreading. Seek immediate medical attention.
- Persistent Bad Breath or Taste: Constant bad breath or a bitter taste may be a sign of gum inflammation or an abscess.
- Bleeding Gums: Heavy or continuous bleeding while brushing your teeth or flossing may indicate gum disease or serious inflammation.
- Swollen Lymph Nodes: Swollen lymph nodes in the area under the jaw or in the neck could be your body’s response to infection.
Why You Should Take Immediate Action?
If ignored, wisdom teeth pain can lead not only to tooth loss but also to jawbone damage and more serious infections. If the infection enters the bloodstream, it can cause life-threatening complications. Therefore, if you experience any of the above signs, consult a dentist promptly for appropriate treatment.
Do not risk your health. Regular dental check-ups and not underestimating your pain are important. Early intervention is the key to preventing more serious problems.
Wisdom Teeth Extraction: The Process and What to Keep in Mind
Wisdom teeth often need to be extracted, especially if they cause pain, swelling, or infection or pose a risk to neighboring teeth. They may also need removal for orthodontic treatment or prosthetic planning.
Is It a Painful Procedure?
Many people wonder if wisdom tooth extraction is painful. The procedure is done under local anesthesia, and there is no pain during the extraction because the area is completely numbed. After the anesthesia wears off, you may feel mild pain or soreness, which can be easily managed with pain relievers.
How Are Wisdom Teeth Extracted?
Depending on the tooth’s condition and position, different methods can be used:
- Examination and X-Ray: Your dentist will take an X-ray to evaluate the tooth’s position and examine the surrounding tissues.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to ensure you feel no pain during the procedure.
- Tooth Extraction: If the tooth has fully emerged, it can be easily removed. For impacted or partially emerged teeth, a small incision is made in the gum. If necessary, the tooth is divided into parts for removal.
- Suturing: If a surgical incision was made, the area is closed with stitches to speed healing.
- Gauze Application: A sterile gauze pad is placed to control bleeding. You usually bite down on this pad for about 30 minutes.
Recovery Process and What You Should Do:
Complete healing usually takes a few days to a week. Following your dentist’s instructions during this period will help you recover more quickly.
During the First 24 Hours:
- Keep the Gauze in Place: Bite down on the gauze for the time your dentist recommended.
- Avoid Rinsing and Spitting: Do not rinse or spit during the first 24 hours to prevent dislodging the blood clot.
- Avoid Hot and Acidic Foods: Consume soft and cold foods. Avoid hot, spicy, or acidic foods.
- Do Not Smoke or Drink Alcohol: These can negatively affect healing and cause bleeding.
- Avoid Strenuous Activities: Refrain from physical activities to reduce the risk of bleeding.
In the Following Days:
- Take Pain Relievers and Antibiotics: Use prescribed medications regularly.
- Warm Saltwater Rinses: After 24 hours, rinse several times a day with warm saltwater to prevent infection and maintain oral hygiene.
- Pay Attention to Oral Hygiene: You can brush your teeth, but avoid the extraction site.
- Stitches: If you have stitches, return to your dentist to have them removed at the appointed time.
Possible Complications and When to Contact Your Dentist:
Mild pain, swelling, or bruising during recovery is normal. However, contact your dentist immediately if you experience:
- Severe, Persistent Pain: If you have abnormal pain not relieved by medications.
- Prolonged Bleeding: Bleeding that continues after 24 hours.
- High Fever and Swollen Lymph Nodes: Could indicate an infection.
- Bad Odor or Taste: May be a sign of infection at the extraction site.
When performed by a qualified dentist, wisdom tooth extraction is generally smooth and quick. Remember, patience and careful oral hygiene practices are essential for a successful recovery.
