When wisdom teeth begin to emerge, many people experience discomfort or even significant pain in their jaw. This pain is a common occurrence during the eruption of these third molars, often due to the pressure they exert on the surrounding structures. However, not all jaw pain during the eruption of wisdom teeth is the same, and understanding the reasons behind this discomfort can help manage the situation more effectively.
This article explores the reasons why jaw pain occurs when wisdom teeth come in, the associated symptoms, and what can be done to alleviate the pain. Whether you’re about to go through this process or are currently experiencing it, understanding the mechanics of wisdom teeth eruption is essential to managing the discomfort.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth at the back of your mouth. These teeth typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood, generally between the ages of 17 and 25. For some people, wisdom teeth come in without much fuss, but for others, they can cause a variety of problems, including pain in the jaw.
The Role of Wisdom Teeth
Historically, wisdom teeth were essential for our ancestors, who had a diet of raw, tough foods that required more chewing power. Over time, as human diets evolved and dental care improved, the need for wisdom teeth diminished. In many modern mouths, there’s simply not enough space to accommodate these teeth, which often leads to complications when they try to erupt.
Why Does Jaw Pain Occur When Wisdom Teeth Come In?
There are several reasons why the eruption of wisdom teeth can lead to jaw pain. Understanding these causes is key to figuring out how to manage the discomfort and avoid further dental issues.
1. Pressure from Wisdom Teeth Eruption
As wisdom teeth begin to emerge, they put pressure on the surrounding teeth and jawbone. This pressure is often the most common cause of jaw pain. The lack of space in the mouth means that the wisdom teeth must push through the gums, which can irritate the tissues in the surrounding area.
This pressure can also affect the surrounding molars, causing them to shift, which may lead to pain and discomfort in the jaw. This is particularly common when there is not enough space in the mouth to accommodate the new teeth properly.
2. Impacted Wisdom Teeth
In some cases, wisdom teeth may not be able to fully emerge through the gums due to a lack of space or improper alignment. This condition is known as impaction, and it can lead to significant pain in the jaw. Impacted wisdom teeth may only partially emerge, or they may remain trapped beneath the gum line altogether.
When wisdom teeth become impacted, they may cause swelling, infection, and severe pain in the jaw. In such cases, the pain is not only from the eruption but also from the inflammation and infection caused by the impaction.
3. Gum Inflammation
When wisdom teeth begin to emerge, they often cause inflammation of the surrounding gum tissue. This can result in pain and tenderness in the jaw, as well as swelling in the affected area. If the gum tissue becomes infected, the pain can worsen, leading to additional discomfort in the jaw and mouth.
4. Sinus Pressure and Jaw Pain
In some cases, the eruption of wisdom teeth, particularly in the upper jaw, can affect the sinuses. The roots of the upper wisdom teeth are located near the maxillary sinus, and when these teeth emerge, they can put pressure on the sinus cavity.
This pressure can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, as well as headaches and sinus-like symptoms.
5. Teeth Crowding and Jaw Misalignment
As wisdom teeth try to emerge, they may push against the existing teeth in the mouth, causing them to shift. This shifting can lead to a misalignment of the teeth and jaw, which may cause pain. If the teeth are crowded, the jaw may also feel sore from the extra pressure exerted by the new teeth.
Common Symptoms of Jaw Pain from Wisdom Teeth
While jaw pain is the most common symptom, there are several other signs that can indicate that wisdom teeth are coming in or causing problems. These symptoms include:
1. Swelling and Tenderness
As wisdom teeth emerge, the surrounding gum tissue may swell and become tender. This can cause localized discomfort in the jaw, making it difficult to chew or open your mouth fully.
2. Difficulty Moving the Jaw
Pain from wisdom teeth can make it hard to move your jaw normally. Opening your mouth, chewing, or speaking may become difficult due to the discomfort caused by the erupting teeth.
3. Headaches and Ear Pain
The pain associated with wisdom teeth can sometimes radiate to other parts of the face, including the temples, ears, or the neck. This can result in headaches, a feeling of fullness in the ears, or general facial discomfort.
4. Bad Breath and a Bad Taste
If your wisdom teeth are impacted or causing an infection, you may also experience bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth.
This can happen due to food particles and bacteria becoming trapped in the gums around the emerging teeth.
5. Bleeding Gums
The gums around the emerging wisdom teeth may bleed, especially when brushing or eating. This is usually a sign of irritation caused by the eruption process and may also indicate gum infection.
How to Alleviate Jaw Pain from Wisdom Teeth
Although wisdom teeth can cause significant discomfort, there are several ways to alleviate the pain. These methods can help reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and make the process more manageable.
1. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage mild to moderate pain. These medications help reduce inflammation and relieve pain, allowing you to function more comfortably while your wisdom teeth come in.
2. Warm Saltwater Rinses
A warm saltwater rinse can help soothe inflamed gums and reduce swelling. Simply mix half a teaspoon of salt with a glass of warm water and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds. This can help clean the area and promote healing of the gum tissue.
3. Cold Compresses
Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help numb the pain and reduce swelling in the jaw. Wrap ice in a clean cloth or use a commercial cold pack, and apply it to the outside of your jaw for 15-20 minutes at a time.
4. Soft Foods
If chewing is painful, try eating soft foods that don’t require much effort to chew. Smoothies, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soup are good options during this time.
5. Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial when wisdom teeth are coming in. Gently brushing the area around the emerging teeth can help reduce the risk of infection and ease discomfort. However, be careful not to irritate the swollen gums, as this can make the pain worse.
6. Visit Your Dentist
If you experience significant or persistent pain, it’s important to visit your dentist. They can assess your wisdom teeth, check for signs of infection or impaction, and offer professional advice or treatment. In some cases, your dentist may recommend extraction of the wisdom teeth if they are causing significant problems.
When to See A Dentist or Oral Surgeon
While mild discomfort is normal when wisdom teeth are coming in, there are situations when it’s important to seek professional dental care:
Severe Pain: If the pain is intense or doesn’t improve with over-the-counter treatments, it may indicate an underlying issue, such as an infection or impaction.
Infection: If you notice swelling, pus, or a bad taste in your mouth, it may indicate an infection around the wisdom teeth.
Jaw Stiffness: If you have difficulty opening your mouth or if the pain is affecting your ability to eat or speak, it’s important to consult with a dental professional.
Signs of Impacted Teeth: If the wisdom teeth are not coming in properly or if the pain is radiating to other areas of the face, your dentist may recommend an X-ray to check for impacted teeth.
Conclusion
Jaw pain from wisdom teeth is a common experience, but it’s important to remember that it is often temporary and manageable. The discomfort is usually a result of the pressure from the emerging teeth, inflammation in the gums, or, in some cases, impaction. By understanding the causes and taking steps to manage the pain, you can make the process more comfortable. However, if the pain becomes severe or persistent, it’s always best to consult with a dentist to rule out complications and discuss potential treatments, including the possibility of extraction.
