Wisdom Tooth Pain: Common Causes and Necessary Steps
Introduction
Experiencing pain with your wisdom teeth is quite common, even if they have not fully emerged. This article explores the reasons behind this discomfort and provides guidance on what actions you should take if your wisdom tooth is causing you significant pain.
Common Causes of Wisdom Tooth Pain
1. Impaction
Wisdom teeth may become impacted, meaning they are trapped in the jawbone or gums. This condition can lead to pain and swelling. Such impaction occurs due to insufficient space in the jaw, leading to the wisdom tooth growing in an awkward angle or position. This positioning can result in pressure on the surrounding structures, causing discomfort and pain.
Impact on Adjacent Teeth
The angled growth of wisdom teeth can put pressure on the neighboring teeth, leading to constant irritation and sometimes even the resorption of the adjacent tooth’s root. As mentioned, the portion of the tooth you can see is the crown, while the portion embedded in the jaw is the root.
Eruption-Related Discomfort
As the wisdom tooth begins to erupt (break through the gum), it can cause discomfort or pain in the surrounding area. This is a normal process, but the pain can be considerable for some individuals. Proper dental hygiene and care during this period can minimize discomfort. If you experience persistent pain, it is advisable to consult a dentist.
Impact on Oral Health
2. Infection (Pericoronitis)
The area around the wisdom tooth can become inflamed or infected, a condition known as pericoronitis. This can lead to notable pain. Pericoronitis often occurs when the gum tissue around the wisdom tooth becomes irritated or swollen, trapping food and bacteria, which can cause infection. This condition is more prevalent in partially erupted wisdom teeth where the gum covers part of the crown.
3. Dental Caries
When wisdom teeth are not fully erupted, the gum tissue can trap food particles. The posterior position of these teeth makes it difficult to clean this area thoroughly. Over time, this can lead to dental caries (tooth decay) and exacerbate the pain.
Management and Prevention
1. Consult a Dentist
Given these common issues, it is advisable to consult a dentist for an evaluation. Your dentist can recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include extraction if the wisdom tooth is causing significant pain, creating infections, or posing a risk to your other teeth. Extraction can prevent further complications, such as resorption of adjacent tooth roots or the risk of jaw fractures due to the imprecise positioning of the wisdom tooth.
2. Dental Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene, especially in the area of the wisdom tooth, can help prevent or minimize these issues. Regular brushing, flossing, and using interdental cleaners can be beneficial. Scaling and root planing by a dental professional can also help remove any plaque and tartar buildup.
Conclusion
Wisdom tooth pain is often a result of impaction, eruption issues, infections, or poor oral hygiene. While many individuals can manage the discomfort with basic dental care and home remedies, persistent or severe pain warrants a professional evaluation. Regular dental check-ups and proper dental hygiene practices can prevent the development of these problems and ensure ongoing oral health.
For more information and guidance, consult a healthcare provider or a dentist.