Wisdom teeth (also known as the third molars) are the last set of molars to emerge in the back of the mouth, usually appearing in the early twenties. The third molars can be a valuable asset to patients when healthy and properly aligned. However, they can also cause problems such as pain and discomfort when they are impacted or become infected. In this article, we will discuss what to take for wisdom tooth pain.
Causes of Wisdom Tooth Pain
Pain can be caused by various factors, such as:
Impacted wisdom teeth: When wisdom teeth do not have enough room to emerge properly, they can become impacted. This can cause pain and discomfort.
Infected wisdom teeth: If the gum tissue surrounding the tooth becomes infected. This can cause swelling and even sometimes causes patients to feel systemically unwell.
Tooth Decay: Wisdom teeth are more susceptible to tooth decay than other teeth, which can lead to pain and sensitivity.
Symptoms of Wisdom Tooth Pain
Pain can manifest in different ways, depending on the underlying cause. Some common symptoms include:
Pain in the back of the mouth or jaw
Swelling of the gum tissue around the affected tooth
Difficulty opening the mouth
Bad taste or odor in the mouth
Headaches and earaches
Treatment Options for Wisdom Tooth Pain
There are various treatment options depending on the severity of the condition. Some common options include:
Antibiotics: If the pain is caused by an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed by the dentist to help clear the infection.
Tooth Extraction: In severe cases, wisdom tooth extraction may be necessary to alleviate pain and prevent further complications. At Pearl dental clinic, we provide Intra-Venous Sedation should you require it for your tooth extraction.
How to Reduce Wisdom Tooth Pain
Below are some simple measures you can take to reduce wisdom tooth pain and discomfort.
Use saltwater rinses: Mix one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and rinse your mouth with the solution to help reduce swelling and promote healing.
Use an ice pack: Apply an ice pack to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time to help reduce swelling and numb the pain.
Eat soft foods: Avoid hard or crunchy foods that can aggravate the affected area, and opt for soft foods that are easier to chew.
Practice good oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly around the wisdom tooth to keep the affected area clean and prevent further infection.
