Understanding wisdom tooth pain
Wisdom tooth pain affects many people when it occurs in their mouth. This pain can be felt at the back of the mouth either on top or bottom, and it happens when there is no more room in the mouth for other teeth. Pain that you feel from wisdom teeth can cause several symptoms like pain and discomfort in chewing, soreness, or even headache in some cases, meaning you may have to get your wisdom teeth removed. However, some home remedies options help you ease the pain while you’re waiting for the professional treatment, such as over-the-counter painkillers, and rinsing with salt water. Still, sometimes the best option is to remove the teeth as soon as possible. If you find yourself facing these symptoms and pain, knowing what to expect during recovery and how to manage the pain can make the process much easier.
What causes wisdom teeth pain?
Pain from wisdom teeth is often caused by the third molars not having enough space to come in properly. This can cause impaction, meaning that wisdom teeth can get stuck under the gum, push against other teeth, grow at the wrong angle, or wouldn’t be able to break fully through the gum. In more severe cases, impacted wisdom teeth can cause infection, swelling, or damage to the jaw bone. At one point, you can control the pain by remedies option, but if you have pain beyond this period it is time to take action for more professional treatment.
Symptoms of wisdom tooth
Symptoms of wisdom teeth can show up in different ways, and you can expect them in your adult years. Therefore, early detection of signs can help you prevent more severe complications. Here are some common issues that you may experience.
- Inflamed gums especially around the back molars.
- Bleeding occurs when brushing or eating.
- High sensitivity when chewing or biting.
- Harsh pain in the jaw that radiates to the ear, making it harder to fully open your mouth, along with stiffness in your jaw.
- Bad breath is caused by trapped food, bacteria, and debris in the gaps and tissue of the gums.
- Developed infection can cause a foul taste in the mouth, pus, facial swelling, and even fever.
All of these symptoms are signaling for immediate dental care before it gets any worse.
Is wisdom teeth removal painful?
If you need a wisdom tooth extraction, your dentist will typically refer you to an oral surgeon experienced in the procedure. Before the extraction, make sure to discuss the procedure with your surgeon, including your medical history, the type of anesthesia, and medications. The surgery should take around 45 minutes or less, and you won’t feel pain due to the anesthesia. However, pain after a wisdom tooth extraction is common during recovery time, and due to this pain you might face some pain and discomfort; like swelling, and tenderness. It is important to take time off from work and school to rest and heal properly. While recovery time is different in each person, you may need a couple of weeks and don’t forget to contact your dentist for a follow-up evaluation.
Managing pain after wisdom tooth extraction
For a smoother recovery after extraction, you’ll need to manage your pain properly. For the first 24 to 48 hours, it is recommended to use an ice pack to the outside of the cheek, to reduce the swelling and inflammation. Your dentist might prescribe painkillers like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or stronger medications if needed. Therefore, it is important to give yourself time to heal from extraction, try to eat soft food, and avoid eating hot, cold, or spicy food for a few days. Moreover, you’ll need to be extra careful around the extraction site. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water for the first 24 hours to prevent infection, and don’t forget to avoid using straws, spitting forcefully, or smoking, as these actions can cause bleeding and a serious condition called dry socket. By following these steps for the first few days after extraction, you will be capable of managing the pain and supporting your recovery afterward.
Home remedies for pain
Alternatively, if you find yourself facing pain due to your wisdom teeth emerging, you’ll need to use some temporary pain relief to provide a bit of comfort. This method helps to reduce inflammation, soften the area, and reduce allergies.
- Use aloe gel on the skin to reduce inflammation and soothe the area.
- Apply clove oil on a cotton ball to the affected area and near the painful tooth.
- Add saltwater rinse to your oral hygiene habit, to kill harmful bacteria, loosen debris, and promote the healing process.
- When experiencing harsh pain, use numbing gel for temporary pain relief.
- Over-the-counter pills like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can also help you manage the pain and discomfort.
However, for many people, these remedies offer short-term solutions. Therefore, the pain that you experience is an immediate call for action. So don’t forget to call for an appointment with your dentist, and take good care of yourself during the time you’re expecting the procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does the pain last after wisdom tooth extraction?
Usually, pain lasts for 3 to 7 days, with the most intense pain in the first 24 hours. The full recovery would take up to two weeks, depending on how complex the procedure was.
What can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?
You might need to stick with soft foods for the first 24-48 hours after the extraction. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy food that could irritate the extraction site to prevent further issues.
When should I see a dentist for wisdom tooth pain?
When you are experiencing common symptoms, like pain in the back of the mouth, swelling, difficulty opening your mouth, or even fever. An early detection can prevent more complex issues, like impacted teeth.