The problem with wisdom teeth is that the third molars are coming out from the gum line in the late teen or early adult age. The tooth itself is caught in a position where it is trying to pass through the gum line and this can result in pushing, inflammation, and infection. Pain may be the result of improper tooth position or insufficient jaw space. Different methods can be used hence oral painkillers, topical numbing gels, and warm salt water rinses which can reduce the swelling may help to reduce pain. The next step is to visit a dental specialist for root-cause treatment which may include infection or wisdom tooth impaction. So, today we are going to explore the reasons for wisdom tooth pain and learn how to prevent it.
Causes of Wisdom Tooth Pain
- Impaction: The principal reason for the pain in the wisdom tooth is its impact. Hence, it means that the wisdom teeth fail to erupt or the ones that erupt are unable to grow adequately. In addition, it might be accompanied by the development of pressure, swelling, and pain in the gum tissue as well as the teeth that are next to it.
- Infection: The bacteria will gather in the cavities formed by partially erupted wisdom teeth and in this way infections will occur. This is a condition known as pericoronitis, which makes the area around the site swell, turn red, and cause pain.
- Gum Disease: The wisdom teeth can be problematic and hard to clean if they are not in the correct position. This can lead to periodontal disease or gum disease. The person can suffer from periodontitis which can cause inflammation, infection, and recession of the gums, and could be in pain and discomfort.
- Crowding: The emergence of wisdom teeth may cause cheeky teeth to move or to be crowded, which is why the mouth structure is not properly aligned and the lips are not properly closed. This could lead to excessive pressure put on the adjacent teeth and jaw joint, which may, in turn, cause the formation of tension and pain.
Wisdom Tooth Pain: What is the Way Out?
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: The non-prescription pain relievers for example ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help with the pain caused by wisdom teeth eruption and reduce the inflammation.
- Saltwater Rinse: Rinsing your mouth with warm salty water will be of great help in removing the swelling, pain, and infection. You should do this quite often. Push one teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and keep on swirling it in your mouth for some seconds then spit it out.
- Topical Analgesics: The pain killer gel or numbing drug applied over the counter directly on the affected area may not be as effective as those prescription creams and gels, but it can help relieve the pain and discomfort for the time being.
- Ice Pack: In case you have a cold compress or an ice pack, put it on the cheek that is in the closest proximity to the painful part. That will be useful for pain relief and also the swelling and inflammation decrease.
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing are the most important parts of oral hygiene. Especially in the area of the wisdom teeth, they help to prevent plaque from building up, the likelihood of infection is reduced and pain caused by gum disease can be relieved.
When to See a Dentist: When to go to the dentist
If your wisdom teeth you have been having trouble with for a while or you are having symptoms of infection, e.g. swelling, redness, and fever, you should ensure you are going to your dentist. A dentist can evaluate your wisdom teeth, diagnose the underlying cause of the pain, and recommend appropriate treatment. The dentist can point out the mistakes your wisdom teeth are making, identify the source of the pain, and provide the recommended remedy.
Conclusion
Through taking adequate measures, you will be able to reach the purpose of the treatment which is to make you feel better, help you heal, and keep your teeth healthy. Nevertheless, we at The Oxford Smiles Clinic are capable of offering all types of dental care that are designed to give you a smile with confidence.
If you need an appointment, get in touch with us today.