Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that usually start to emerge in your late teens or early twenties. They often become impacted which can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. The symptoms of an impacted wisdom tooth can include tenderness or swelling around the jaw, difficulty opening your mouth fully, and aching pain that radiates from the back of your mouth to your ear. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can cause infection or injury to other nearby teeth. This blog post will review some symptoms, causes, and treatments, including impacted wisdom teeth pain relief.
What is Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Impacted wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to develop fully, so they can become trapped under the gums and may cause problems like severe pain, a partial eruption of the tooth or gum tissue swelling. If a wisdom tooth cannot break through the gums or is in an abnormal position, it is considered ‘impacted’. Dentists may recommend extracting them to prevent discomfort and infection from impacted teeth. However, regular dental check-ups can help identify any problems at an early stage.
Causes Of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Causes Of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth can be caused by:
Gum Disease
Gum disease can cause the gums to shrink, making it difficult for the wisdom teeth to erupt.
Infections
Infections in the gums or bone can cause the wisdom teeth to be trapped.
Abscesses
Abscesses can cause impacted wisdom teeth because the infection may cause the tooth to be pushed further down into the gums.
Cysts
Cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can form a wisdom tooth and prevent it from erupting.
Home Remedies For Impacted Wisdom Teeth Pain Relief
Impacted wisdom teeth can be painful and uncomfortable. Here are some home remedies to help with wisdom teeth impacted pain relief:
Rinsing With Saltwater
Saltwater helps reduce swelling and inflammation in the gums, making it easier for the tooth to erupt.
Applying Cold Compresses
A cold compress can help reduce swelling and provide pain relief. Cold compresses should be applied to the area for 10 minutes several times a day.
Gently Massaging The Gums
Gently rubbing the gums where the impacted tooth is located can help to promote circulation and reduce pain.
Use Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce discomfort from impacted wisdom teeth. These medications should be taken as directed.
Keep the Area Clean
Gently brush the area twice a day and floss around it to keep it clean. This will help prevent infection from developing.
Making Dietary Changes
Eating softer foods, like mashed potatoes or yoghourt, can make it easier to chew without causing discomfort. Avoiding hard, crunchy foods can also help reduce pain.
Lifestyle Changes
Making lifestyle changes can also help relieve symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth. Good oral hygiene, such as twice daily brushing and flossing, can help keep the area around the wisdom teeth clean and reduce the risk of infection or damage. Eating a healthy diet and avoiding smoking and drinking can also help keep teeth and gums healthy.
Medical Relief For Impacted Wisdom Teeth Pain
If your impacted wisdom teeth are causing pain or other symptoms, it’s best to make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist may recommend the following:
Extraction
Your dentist may recommend that the impacted tooth be extracted to prevent further complications. Wisdom teeth extraction is usually done under local anaesthesia and can be done in one or multiple visits, depending on the degree of impaction.
Surgery
In some cases, oral surgery may be necessary to remove a severely impacted wisdom tooth that cannot be extracted with more conventional methods. Surgery may involve creating an incision in the gums to gain access to the tooth and remove it.
Antibiotics
If there is an infection, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help clear it up. If left untreated, an infection can spread and become more serious. Antibiotics can help reduce swelling, pain, and discomfort.
Quality Dental Care
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and other complications. Proper oral hygiene is essential to keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection or damage. If you experience any symptoms of an impacted wisdom tooth, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment.
At Bellevue Hill Dental, we understand that healthy teeth can contribute to overall health and well-being, which is why we strive to help our patients achieve them through long-term and preventative care. We pride ourselves on being more than just a dental practice. We’re also a family dedicated to providing high-quality service with a personal touch. If you’re looking for individualised dental care in a friendly environment, make an appointment today.
