Wisdom teeth pain

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, can cause pain and discomfort as they emerge or become impacted. This can occur during the late teens or early twenties, and it can vary in severity.

Symptoms of wisdom teeth pain may include:

  • Swelling and tenderness around the gum line at the back of the mouth

  • Pain or discomfort when biting or chewing

  • Difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing

  • Headaches or earaches

There are several reasons why wisdom teeth can cause pain, including:

  • Impaction: When a wisdom tooth does not have enough space to emerge properly, it can become impacted and push against other teeth or bone, causing pain and discomfort.

  • Infection: When a wisdom tooth partially emerges, it can create a gap between the tooth and the gum, allowing bacteria to enter and cause infection.

  • Crowding: Wisdom teeth can cause crowding of other teeth, leading to pain and discomfort.

Treatment for wisdom teeth pain depends on the cause and severity of the symptoms. Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe stronger medication to manage pain and swelling. In some cases, antibiotics may be needed to treat an infection.

If the wisdom teeth are causing persistent pain or other oral health problems, your dentist may recommend removing them. Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that involves removing one or more wisdom teeth under local anaesthesia or sedation. It can help alleviate pain and prevent future dental problems.

Leila Haywood