Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often encounter difficulties in erupting properly due to lack of space in the jaw or other anatomical factors. When they become impacted, it can lead to a host of problems, with pain being one of the most prominent and bothersome symptoms. The pain can have a significant impact on a person’s daily life, affecting their ability to eat, speak, and even sleep.
Types of Pain Associated with Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Dull Ache
One of the most common initial sensations is a dull, persistent ache. This pain is often described as a background discomfort that is constantly present. It can be felt in the area around the impacted wisdom tooth, which may include the back of the jaw, the gums, and sometimes even radiating to the ear or temple. The dull ache may seem to worsen over time as the impaction progresses or if there is an increase in inflammation. For example, a patient might notice a mild, nagging pain in the lower right quadrant of the jaw that persists throughout the day and is more noticeable when they are at rest or trying to relax.
Sharp, Throbbing Pain
As the situation with the impacted wisdom tooth deteriorates, sharp and throbbing pain can occur. This type of pain is usually more intense and comes in waves. It may be triggered by activities such as chewing, biting, or even opening the mouth wide. The throbbing pain is often a sign of increased pressure on the nerves in the area or an active infection. For instance, when a patient tries to eat something hard or crunchy, they may experience a sudden, intense pain that pulsates in the jaw, making it almost impossible to continue eating.
Pain on Biting or Chewing
When attempting to use the teeth for biting and chewing, a person with an impacted wisdom tooth may feel a specific type of pain. It can be a sharp, shooting pain that travels through the jaw. This is because the act of biting or chewing puts additional pressure on the already compromised area around the wisdom tooth. The pain may also be accompanied by a feeling of instability or misalignment in the bite. For example, a patient might find that when they bite down on food, they experience a stabbing pain near the back of their mouth, which forces them to avoid using that side of their mouth for chewing.
Radiating Pain
Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain that radiates to other areas of the face and head. The pain may travel to the ear, causing a dull or sharp earache. It can also extend to the temple, resulting in a headache-like sensation. In some cases, the pain may even be felt in the neck. This radiating pain is due to the complex network of nerves in the oral and facial region.
For instance, a patient may initially complain of a toothache but then also experience a persistent earache that seems to be related to the problem with their wisdom tooth.
Factors Influencing the Pain
Degree of Impaction
The more severely the wisdom tooth is impacted, the greater the likelihood of significant pain. A deeply buried wisdom tooth that is angled in an abnormal direction can cause more pressure and irritation to the surrounding tissues and nerves.
For example, a horizontally impacted wisdom tooth may cause more pain compared to a slightly angled one because it exerts a greater force on the adjacent structures as it tries to erupt.
Infection and Inflammation
If an impacted wisdom tooth becomes infected, the pain can intensify dramatically. The presence of bacteria in the area leads to inflammation, which in turn puts pressure on the nerves. Pericoronitis, an infection of the gum tissue around the wisdom tooth, is a common cause of severe pain. The infected area may become swollen, red, and extremely painful. For example, a patient with an infected wisdom tooth may experience a sudden increase in pain, along with swelling of the gums and difficulty opening the mouth.
Individual Pain Tolerance
Everyone has a different pain tolerance level. Some people may be able to tolerate the mild discomfort of an impacted wisdom tooth for a longer time, while others may find even a slight ache unbearable. Factors such as genetics, psychological state, and previous experiences with pain can all influence an individual’s perception of the pain caused by an impacted wisdom tooth. For instance, a person who has a history of dental anxiety may report more severe pain compared to someone who is more relaxed about dental issues.
Managing the Pain of Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Over-the-Counter Pain Medications
Mild to moderate pain from an impacted wisdom tooth can often be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These medications work by reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals. It is important to follow the recommended dosage instructions. For example, ibuprofen can be taken every 4 – 6 hours as needed to relieve pain and reduce swelling. However, it may not be sufficient for severe pain or pain associated with an infection.
Cold Compresses
Applying a cold compress to the outside of the cheek near the impacted wisdom tooth can help reduce pain and swelling.The cold constricts the blood vessels, which lessens the inflammation and provides a numbing effect. A cold pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a thin towel can be used. The compress should be applied for 15 – 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. For example, a patient can apply a cold compress after experiencing pain from chewing to help soothe the area.
Proper Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene around the impacted wisdom tooth can help prevent further irritation and infection. Gently rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can help reduce bacteria and soothe the gums. Brushing carefully in the area, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, can also help keep the area clean. However, it is important not to overbrush or irritate the already sensitive gums. For example, a patient can rinse with a warm salt water solution (half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) several times a day to keep the area clean and relieve some discomfort.
Dental Consultation and Treatment
If the pain persists or worsens, it is essential to seek a dental consultation. The dentist will evaluate the situation and may recommend further treatment such as antibiotics if there is an infection, or extraction of the impacted wisdom tooth. In some cases, a temporary relief measure such as a dental dressing or a prescription pain medication may be provided until a more definitive treatment plan can be implemented. For example, a dentist may prescribe an antibiotic like amoxicillin to treat an infection and relieve the associated pain before scheduling a wisdom tooth extraction.
Conclusion
The pain associated with impacted wisdom teeth can be a complex and distressing experience. It can manifest in various forms, from a dull ache to sharp, throbbing pain that radiates to other parts of the face and head. The degree of pain is influenced by factors such as the extent of impaction, the presence of infection, and an individual’s pain tolerance. While some pain can be managed at home with over-the-counter medications, cold compresses, and proper oral hygiene, persistent or severe pain requires a dental consultation and appropriate treatment. Understanding the nature of this pain is the first step in effectively managing the condition and seeking the necessary dental care to relieve discomfort and prevent further complications.
