Wisdom Teeth Pain Relief: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
Wisdom Teeth Pain Relief
Wisdom teeth are the third molars and last set of teeth to emerge in the back corners of your mouth. They are a remnant of our ancestors’ diets, which consisted of rougher foods that required more chewing power. For some individuals, wisdom teeth emerge without any issues and align properly with the rest of their teeth.
However, for many others, these teeth can cause pain and complications due to various reasons. Wisdom teeth cause pain and complications due to factors such as lack of space in the jaw, leading to pushing against other teeth, swelling, infection, and other issues.
Understanding Wisdom Teeth and Their Impact
Wisdom teeth typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25. For some lucky individuals, these teeth emerge without any issues. However, many people experience pain and complications due to:
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, become impacted when they fail to emerge fully through the gums due to obstruction by other teeth or jawbone. An impacted wisdom tooth can lead to various complications such as pain, infection, and damage to nearby teeth and bone structure.
Cyst Formation
In some cases, a fluid-filled sac (cyst) may form around an impacted wisdom tooth. This can cause pain and, if left untreated, may damage surrounding teeth or bone.
Tooth Decay
Since the grooves of your four wisdom teeth are deep, it is easy for food to get trapped inside them, causing decay.
Partial Eruption Leading to Infection
In some cases, wisdom teeth only partially emerge through the gums. This partial eruption creates an opening where bacteria can enter and cause infection. The gum tissue surrounding partially erupted wisdom teeth can become swollen, tender, and painful, a condition known as pericoronitis.
When wisdom teeth cause problems, they can lead to severe pain, swelling, and even damage to adjacent teeth. In such cases, wisdom tooth removal may be necessary.
Signs of Wisdom Teeth Pain
Recognising the symptoms of wisdom teeth pain is crucial for timely intervention. Common signs include:
- Aching gums and teeth pain in the back of the mouth
- Swollen gums and inflammation around the affected area
- Difficulty opening the mouth or chewing food
- Headaches or jaw pain
- Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a dental professional at Kensington Dental for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Home Remedies For Wisdom Teeth Pain Relief
While professional dental care is crucial, there are several home remedies you can try to alleviate wisdom tooth pain while waiting to see your dental professional:
1. Saltwater Rinse
A saltwater rinse is an effective and simple way to reduce pain and fight bacterial infections. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gently rinse your mouth for 30 seconds. This natural disinfectant can help soothe painful gums and promote healing.
2. Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Use the compress for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
3. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Non-prescription pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can provide temporary pain relief. Always follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
4. Clove Oil
Clove oil has natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply a few drops of clove oil to a cotton ball and gently place it on the painful area for a numbing effect.
5. Peppermint Tea Bags
Cooled peppermint tea bags can be applied to the affected gums to help soothe pain and reduce inflammation. The menthol in peppermint has natural numbing properties.
Professional Treatments For Wisdom Teeth Pain
When home remedies aren’t enough to relieve wisdom tooth pain, it’s time to seek professional help. At Kensington Dental, we offer several treatments to address wisdom teeth issues:
1. Dental Examination and X-rays
A thorough dental examination, including mouth X-rays, helps us assess the position of your wisdom teeth and determine the best course of action.
2. Prescription Medications
In cases of severe pain or infection, we may prescribe stronger pain relievers or antibiotics to manage your symptoms effectively.
3. Wisdom Teeth Removal
If your wisdom teeth are impacted or causing significant problems, extraction may be the best solution. Our experienced dental surgeons at Kensington Dental can perform wisdom teeth removal to alleviate pain and prevent future complications. We offer both in-chair (Local Anesthesia) or IV sedation for your comfort.
Helping Wisdom Teeth Pain
While you can’t always prevent wisdom teeth from causing discomfort, there are steps you can take to relieve dental pain and complications:
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing regularly.
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash to keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection.
- Avoid hard or chewy foods that may irritate the emerging wisdom teeth.
- Attend regular dental check-ups to monitor wisdom teeth development.
When to Seek Professional Help
In some cases, wisdom teeth pain may require immediate attention. Seek emergency dental care if you experience:
- Severe, persistent pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medication
- Swelling that extends to the neck or affects your ability to swallow
- Fever, which may indicate an infection
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop with applied pressure
Book with Kensington Dental Today
At Kensington Dental, we’re committed to helping you maintain optimal oral health and providing relief from wisdom teeth pain. Whether you need advice on home remedies, professional treatments, or wisdom teeth removal, our team of experienced dental professionals is here to support you every step of the way.
Don’t let wisdom tooth discomfort impact your quality of life – reach out to Kensington Dental today for personalised care and expert guidance on wisdom teeth pain relief.
