Wisdom tooth pain is a rite of passage for many adults, marking a transition into late adolescence or early adulthood. These last molars, emerging between the ages of 17 and 25, often bring a host of discomforts and complications. In this blog, we’ll delve into the common causes of wisdom tooth pain, providing insights into why this discomfort occurs and how it can be effectively managed.
Anatomy of Wisdom Teeth
While their exact purpose is up for debate, wisdom teeth are thought to be a relic from a time when humans lost many of their molars earlier in their life. This is why it was useful to have teeth sprout later into adulthood—however, nowadays this does more harm than good. This timing can contribute to various issues, as the available space in the jaw is often insufficient to accommodate these latecomers.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
A leading cause of wisdom tooth pain is impaction, where the teeth cannot emerge properly due to limited space or misalignment. Impacted wisdom teeth can remain trapped beneath the gum line or emerge only partially, leading to intense pain, swelling, and difficulty in opening the mouth. They can also push against adjacent teeth, causing further discomfort and alignment issues.
Infection and Gum Disease
Partially erupted wisdom teeth create openings in the gums that can become breeding grounds for bacteria. This can lead to infections or gum disease, characterized by symptoms like swollen, tender gums, bad breath, and even pus discharge. The trapped food particles and difficulty in cleaning these back teeth exacerbate the problem, increasing the risk of painful infections.
General Discomfort and Crowding
Even when wisdom teeth emerge without being impacted, they can cause general discomfort due to the pressure of eruption. This process can be painful and may also lead to crowding of the existing teeth. Such crowding not only causes pain but can undo years of orthodontic work, leading to misalignment and aesthetic concerns.
Prevention and Management
Maintaining impeccable oral hygiene is crucial in preventing infections around wisdom teeth. Regular dental check-ups are equally important for early detection and management of potential issues. Treatments for wisdom tooth pain vary from simple pain relief methods and antibiotics to surgical removal in more severe cases. Fortunately, wisdom teeth removals are a routine treatment that can be managed easily from a patient perspective. Even if you must go this route, you won’t be out of commission for long.
Wisdom tooth pain is a multifaceted issue primarily stemming from impaction, infections, general discomfort, and crowding. Understanding these causes is key to effective treatment and pain management. Prompt dental care is essential in addressing wisdom tooth-related problems, ensuring both oral health and comfort.
About the Author
Dr. Jhansi Bodapati is committed to providing exceptional dental care, including wisdom teeth extractions, at her Euless office. After graduating with a DDS from the New York University College of Dentistry, she enhanced her expertise with a residency at Lincoln Medical & Mental Health Center. Dr. Bodapati is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and an active member of several prestigious dental associations. Her passion and dedication to continuous learning and patient experience make her a distinguished professional in her field.
If you have any questions about wisdom teeth, she can be reached at her website or by phone at (817) 857-2050.