Wisdom Tooth is Hurting? Here is What You Should Do

Wisdom tooth pain is no joke. A constant throbbing pain at the back of your mouth can make daily life extremely uncomfortable. If your wisdom tooth is causing you pain, you’re not alone! This is a common issue that many people experience. Wisdom teeth typically emerge in the late teens or early twenties.

Wisdom tooth pain can be caused by several factors, ranging from normal growth to more serious conditions like impaction or infection.

At Torbay Smiles Dentistry, we want to help you understand what’s happening and guide you through the steps to relief.

Why Does a Wisdom Tooth Hurt?

Wisdom teeth are the third and last set of molars to grow, and they often don’t have enough room to grow properly. This lack of space can lead to various problems that cause pain and discomfort.

One common issue is impaction, where the wisdom tooth becomes trapped under the gum or grows at an angle that presses against neighboring teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause swelling, pain, and even damage to adjacent teeth.

Another reason for pain is inflammation or infection, often caused by food particles and bacteria getting trapped around a partially erupted wisdom tooth. This can lead to a condition called pericoronitis, which is characterized by swollen gums, difficulty opening your mouth, and even bad breath.

Additionally, the pressure from growing wisdom teeth can cause misalignment, leading to discomfort as they push against your other teeth.

What Should You Do If Your Wisdom Tooth Hurts?

If you’re experiencing wisdom tooth pain, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent it from worsening. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you manage the discomfort and seek appropriate care.

First, try to reduce inflammation and pain with home remedies:

• Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help soothe irritated gums and keep the area clean.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can also provide temporary relief from pain and swelling.
• Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the affected area can further reduce swelling and numb the pain.

While these remedies can help manage symptoms in the short term, they won’t address the underlying cause of the pain.

That’s why it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. A dental professional will evaluate your wisdom tooth and determine the best course of action based on your specific situation.

When is Wisdom Tooth Extraction Necessary?

Wisdom tooth extraction is a common procedure used to address the problems discussed above. Extraction is often recommended when:

• The tooth is impacted and cannot erupt properly.
• The tooth is causing pain, swelling, or infection.
• There is insufficient space in the jaw for the wisdom tooth.
• The tooth is damaging neighboring teeth or causing alignment issues.

While the idea of extraction might sound daunting, the procedure is routine and performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Recovery is typically straightforward, with most patients resuming normal activities within a few days.

What Happens If You Ignore Wisdom Tooth Pain?

Ignoring wisdom tooth pain can lead to more serious complications. Untreated impaction or infection can cause damage to nearby teeth, lead to cysts or abscesses, and even affect the surrounding bone. Additionally, ongoing inflammation can increase your risk of gum disease and make it more difficult to maintain good oral hygiene.

The longer you wait to address wisdom tooth pain, the more complex and costly the treatment may become. That’s why it’s essential to act promptly when you notice discomfort.

Preventing Wisdom Tooth Problems

While you can’t prevent wisdom teeth from growing, you can take steps to reduce the risk of complications. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial—brush and floss regularly to keep your gums and teeth clean, paying extra attention to the area around your wisdom teeth.

Regular dental check-ups are also essential. Your dentist can monitor the development of your wisdom teeth and identify potential issues early, allowing for proactive care and intervention if needed.

Relieve Wisdom Tooth Pain at Torbay Smiles Dentistry

Wisdom tooth pain is a common problem, but it doesn’t have to disrupt your daily life. By addressing the issue promptly and seeking professional care, you can find relief and protect your oral health. Whether your wisdom teeth need monitoring, cleaning, or extraction, the team at Torbay Smiles Dentistry is here to help.

If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort from your wisdom teeth, book an appointment with us today!