Wisdom tooth pain

When we’re little, new teeth are celebrated. But by the time our wisdom teeth come around in our late teens and early twenties, they stop being exciting—and can start being a real pain. Sometimes so much, they need to be removed. That’s when your Celebrate Dental & Braces care team can help.

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What causes wisdom tooth pain?

Wisdom teeth (also called third molars) are the final set of molars that come in at the back of your mouth. For some, their arrival can be painful—which is caused by a few factors, including:

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Limited space

Less space causes your wisdom teeth to push against existing teeth and gums.

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Impaction

Meaning they become partially or fully trapped below the gumline or in your jawbone which can cause pain, pressure or infection.

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Inflammation

If they surface above the gumline, the gums can become inflamed which leads to pain and discomfort. Inflammation around emerging and partially impacted wisdom teeth is called pericoronitis and can range from mild to severe.

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Fluid-filled cysts

Partially impacted wisdom teeth can break the gumline and a gum flap can form over the top portion of the tooth. This flap is called an operculum where food and bacteria can get trapped underneath and ultimately lead to infection.

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Gum infection

Partially surfaced teeth can break the gumline and cause infection.

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Nerve irritation

Wisdom teeth in the lower jaw may be close to nerves, and movement or growth can irritate them.

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Wisdom teeth symptoms

If you’re like most adults who still have their wisdom teeth, you may experience pain when they start coming in. The pain can range from mild to severe—but some may not feel any discomfort at all. What wisdom tooth-related symptoms are you experiencing?

My wisdom teeth are causing…

Pain in the back of my mouth
Swelling and redness of gums (or cheeks)
Jaw stiffness
Tension headaches
Difficulty chewing

Wisdom tooth pain relief and treatment

How long does wisdom tooth pain last? Well, it depends on how long they take to surface and whether or not there are any complications that require attention from your Celebrate Dental & Braces care team.
Here’s a few ways to help ease the pain:

Saltwater rinse

Rinsing with warm salt water multiple times a day can help decrease inflammation and keep the area clean.

Cold compress

Holding a cold compress or ice pack to your cheek for 20-minute intervals can help numb the area and reduce swelling.

Head elevation

Elevating your head, especially while you’re sleeping, can minimize blood flow to the area and reduce swelling.

Avoid irritants

Tobacco, alcohol and spicy foods can make pain worse and slow the healing process.

Wisdom teeth removal: pain relief is near

If your wisdom teeth fail to come in correctly, your Celebrate Dental & Braces care team may recommend removing them to relieve pain or prevent future problems. Wisdom tooth extraction is a standard procedure that can improve your oral health. During your wisdom tooth procedure your care team will make sure you are comfortable.
If the pain is intense, persistent or accompanied by symptoms like fever or difficulty swallowing, call your local Celebrate Dental & Braces for guidance. They can evaluate the situation and suggest suitable treatments, which might involve extraction if necessary.

Wisdom tooth pain FAQs

How long does pain after wisdom tooth surgery last?

The duration you may experience discomfort after wisdom tooth surgery is different for everyone. Typically, you will be most uncomfortable during the first few days after your procedure. You may continue to have some discomfort as your surgical site heals, which could take several weeks. Follow the instructions provided by your Celebrate Dental & Braces dentist and call if you have concerns or if your pain increases.

Can wisdom tooth cause ear pain?

Yes, wisdom teeth can sometimes cause referred pain to the ears. The wisdom teeth are located right next to the ears and the interconnected nerves can cause discomfort. If you’re experiencing ear pain along with wisdom tooth discomfort, call your local Celebrate Dental & Braces for an evaluation.

What does wisdom tooth pain feel like?

Wisdom tooth pain is often described as a persistent, dull throb in the rear of the mouth where the teeth are located. The discomfort may range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by stiffness in the jaw, swelling and pain in the ears or head.

How painful is wisdom tooth removal?

When it comes to any tooth extraction, you will always feel pressure, but generally not pain. If you are feeling a sharp pain during the procedure, let your dentist know and they will make sure you are more comfortable with the use of additional anesthetic and/or pain management techniques. A number of Celebrate Dental & Braces practices have an oral surgeon who can also provide sedation to ensure you are comfortable, especially if your wisdom teeth are impacted.

What are the risks of untreated wisdom tooth pain?

Untreated wisdom tooth pain can pose several risks and complications. Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to infections like pericoronitis, which causes swelling, pain and difficulty opening the mouth. Over time, cysts or tumors might form, potentially damaging the nearby teeth and jawbone. It’s important to consult your dentist if you are experiencing wisdom tooth pain.

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Relief from your wisdom teeth pain

Some discomfort is common when your wisdom teeth come in, but if you are experiencing severe pain, headaches or ear pain, contact your local Celebrate Dental & Braces for a consultation. We can help keep you comfortable and remove the teeth if necessary.