Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge in the mouth. They usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. While some people have no issues when their wisdom teeth come in, others experience pain, swelling, and discomfort. The question of how long wisdom teeth pain lasts is one that many patients ask their dentists.
In this article, we will explore the causes of wisdom teeth pain, what to expect during the process, and how long it typically takes for the discomfort to subside.
What Causes Wisdom Teeth Pain?
Crowded Teeth
One of the most common causes of pain from wisdom teeth is crowding. When there isn’t enough room in the mouth for these extra molars to come in properly, they can push against other teeth. This pressure can cause significant pain, particularly in the surrounding gums and jaw.
Impacted Teeth
Wisdom teeth can become impacted when they don’t have enough space to emerge fully. Impacted teeth can either be partially or fully trapped beneath the gum. This condition can lead to pain, swelling, and even infection if left untreated. In some cases, the pain may come and go, but it often intensifies as the teeth try to break through the gum.
Infection and Inflammation
If a wisdom tooth is partially emerged, food and bacteria can get trapped around it, leading to an infection called pericoronitis. This can cause swollen gums, difficulty opening the mouth, and intense pain. Inflammation can also spread to the surrounding tissues, making the pain worse.
How Long Does Wisdom Teeth Pain Last?
During Eruption
Pain from erupting wisdom teeth can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. For many people, the pain is intermittent, coming and going as the tooth continues to try to break through the gum. In some cases, the pain may subside on its own if the tooth manages to emerge without causing significant issues.
After Extraction
If your dentist recommends having your wisdom teeth removed, you may wonder how long the pain will last after the procedure. The good news is that most people find relief fairly quickly after extraction. The initial discomfort usually lasts about 3 to 4 days, but it can take up to 2 weeks for the area to fully heal.
Post-Surgical Pain
For those who need to have impacted or infected wisdom teeth removed, the pain following surgery can be more intense. You can expect discomfort for the first 48 to 72 hours after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications can help manage the pain during this time. Swelling and tenderness should begin to subside after 4 to 7 days.
How to Manage Wisdom Teeth Pain
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Non-prescription medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen are commonly recommended for managing wisdom teeth pain. These medications can reduce both pain and inflammation, helping you feel more comfortable as the teeth emerge or following surgery.
Cold Compresses
Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can help reduce swelling and numb the area, offering temporary relief from wisdom teeth pain. This is particularly useful in the first few days following a wisdom tooth extraction.
Saltwater Rinses
Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help reduce swelling and keep the area around your wisdom teeth clean. This is especially important if your wisdom teeth are only partially emerged, as food particles and bacteria can easily become trapped around the gumline.
Avoiding Certain Foods
If you’re dealing with wisdom teeth pain, it’s a good idea to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate the area. Soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and mashed potatoes are easier to eat and won’t aggravate the sensitive tissues around your wisdom teeth.
What If the Pain Doesn’t Go Away?
Signs of Infection
If the pain around your wisdom teeth lasts longer than expected or worsens over time, it may be a sign of infection. Symptoms of infection include fever, pus coming from the gumline, or difficulty opening your mouth. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact your dentist or oral surgeon right away.
Dry Socket
A common complication after wisdom tooth extraction is dry socket. This occurs when the blood clot that forms in the socket where the tooth was removed becomes dislodged or dissolves, exposing the bone underneath. Dry socket can cause intense pain that radiates to the ear and temple. If you suspect dry socket, you should seek dental care immediately for treatment.
When Should You See a Dentist?
Persistent Pain
If you have been experiencing wisdom tooth pain for more than a week or if the pain becomes more severe over time, it’s a good idea to see a dentist. They can take X-rays to determine whether your wisdom teeth are impacted or causing damage to the surrounding teeth.
Swelling or Bleeding
Swelling of the face, jaw, or gums can be a sign that your wisdom teeth are infected or impacted. If you notice excessive swelling or bleeding from the gums, you should see a dentist as soon as possible. These symptoms could indicate an infection that requires immediate attention.
Difficulty Opening Your Mouth
In some cases, wisdom teeth pain can make it difficult to open your mouth fully. This is especially true if the teeth are impacted or if the surrounding tissues are inflamed. Difficulty opening your mouth could be a sign of a more serious issue and should be evaluated by a dental professional.
How to Prevent Wisdom Teeth Pain
Regular Dental Checkups
The best way to prevent wisdom teeth pain is to see your dentist regularly. During routine checkups, your dentist will monitor the development of your wisdom teeth using X-rays. If they detect any potential issues, they can recommend treatment before the pain becomes severe.
Good Oral Hygiene
Keeping your teeth and gums clean is essential for preventing pain and infection from emerging wisdom teeth. Be sure to brush and floss regularly, especially around the back of your mouth where wisdom teeth are located. Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can also help reduce the risk of infection.
see also: How Long Do Wisdom Teeth Drugs Last?
Can Wisdom Teeth Pain Go Away on Its Own?
Temporary Relief
In some cases, wisdom teeth pain may go away on its own if the teeth successfully break through the gum without causing crowding or other issues. However, this is not always the case. For many people, the pain will return as the teeth continue to emerge or become more impacted.
Permanent Relief Through Extraction
For those whose wisdom teeth are causing ongoing pain, extraction is often the best solution. Once the problematic teeth are removed, the pain should subside permanently. While the recovery period after extraction may involve some discomfort, most people find that the long-term relief is worth it.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth pain can range from mild discomfort to intense, throbbing pain. The duration of the pain depends on whether the teeth are impacted, infected, or simply taking their time to emerge. In most cases, wisdom teeth pain can be managed with over-the-counter medications, home remedies, and proper dental care. However, if the pain persists or worsens, it’s important to see a dentist to prevent further complications. Wisdom teeth extraction is a common solution for long-lasting relief, and most people recover within a week or two after the procedure.
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