The emergence of wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, can be a significant source of discomfort for many individuals.
As these teeth begin to break through the gums, they can cause a range of sensations, including pain and tenderness in the surrounding tissues. Understanding why gums hurt when wisdom teeth come in, and what can be done to alleviate this discomfort, is crucial for those going through this experience.
In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the pain, the symptoms you might experience, and what steps can be taken to manage the discomfort effectively. Whether you’re dealing with your first set of wisdom teeth or have gone through this process before, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars located at the back of your mouth. Typically, these teeth emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, though they can appear earlier or later for some people. Evolutionarily, wisdom teeth were essential for early humans who had a more rugged diet that required more chewing power. Over time, as human diets have evolved, wisdom teeth have become less necessary, and for many people, these teeth either don’t emerge fully or cause problems as they do.
Why Do Gums Hurt When Wisdom Teeth Come In?
The pain experienced during the eruption of wisdom teeth is primarily caused by the pressure these teeth exert on the gums and surrounding tissues. When wisdom teeth start to emerge from the gums, the area can become swollen and inflamed, leading to discomfort. This process can be exacerbated by several factors:
1. Limited Space in the Mouth
One of the main reasons wisdom teeth cause pain is due to the limited space available in the jaw. Most people’s jaws have already fully developed by the time wisdom teeth begin to emerge, which can cause the teeth to become impacted. An impacted tooth is one that cannot fully emerge through the gums because there is not enough space, leading to pressure and inflammation in the gum tissue.
2. Gum Swelling
As the tooth pushes through the gum line, the gums often become swollen and tender. This inflammation can cause pain and discomfort, especially if the gum tissue becomes infected or irritated.
3. Infection
In some cases, the gums around the emerging wisdom tooth can become infected, leading to additional pain. When the tooth partially erupts, a flap of gum tissue may cover part of the tooth, creating a pocket where bacteria can grow. This can result in an infection called pericoronitis, which causes swelling, redness, and pain in the gum tissue.
4. Misalignment or Crowding
If the wisdom teeth emerge at an angle or are misaligned, they may push against other teeth in the mouth, causing additional discomfort.
This can lead to crowding, which may affect the alignment of your other teeth and contribute to pain.
Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Eruption
The process of wisdom teeth coming in can cause a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. Some common symptoms include:
1. Pain and Discomfort
The most common symptom of wisdom teeth coming in is pain. This pain is often felt at the back of the mouth where the teeth are emerging. The pain may worsen when you chew, talk, or open your mouth wide.
2. Swollen and Tender Gums
As the tooth erupts, it can cause the gums to swell and become tender. The gum tissue may appear red and inflamed, and it might feel sore to the touch.
3. Difficulty Opening the Mouth
When wisdom teeth come in, it can be difficult to fully open your mouth, especially if the pain is significant. The pressure from the emerging tooth can make the surrounding muscles and tissues stiff and sore.
4. Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste
When the wisdom teeth break through the gum line, food particles and bacteria may become trapped under the gum flap, leading to bad breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth.
5. Headaches or Jaw Pain
The pressure from the wisdom teeth can radiate to other parts of your face and head, causing headaches or discomfort in your jaw.
6. Swelling in the Jaw or Cheeks
In more severe cases, the pressure from the wisdom teeth can cause noticeable swelling in the jaw or cheeks. This is usually a result of infection or significant gum irritation.
Is It Normal for Gums to Hurt When Wisdom Teeth Come In?
Yes, it is normal for gums to hurt when wisdom teeth come in. In fact, most people experience some level of discomfort during this time.
However, the severity of the pain can vary widely from person to person. For some, the pain may be mild and manageable, while others may experience more significant discomfort that requires professional treatment.
If the pain becomes severe or if you notice other symptoms, such as fever, significant swelling, or pus drainage, it’s important to seek medical advice. These could be signs of an infection that requires prompt treatment.
How Long Does The Pain Last?
The discomfort associated with wisdom teeth typically lasts for a few days to a couple of weeks. In some cases, the pain may subside once the tooth has fully erupted, while for others, the pain may persist until the tooth is extracted.
In cases where the tooth is impacted, the discomfort can last longer and may require professional intervention. If an infection develops, additional treatment may be necessary to manage the symptoms.
How to Relieve Pain from Wisdom Teeth
While wisdom teeth pain can be unpleasant, there are several methods you can use to alleviate the discomfort:
1. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage the pain and reduce inflammation. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage and consult your doctor if you have any concerns.
2. Saltwater Rinse
Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater can help soothe swollen gums and reduce inflammation. Saltwater also helps kill bacteria, which can reduce the risk of infection.
3. Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can help numb the area and reduce swelling. Be sure to wrap the ice pack in a cloth to avoid direct contact with the skin.
4. Topical Gels
There are several over-the-counter topical gels and ointments designed to numb the gums and alleviate pain. These products often contain benzocaine, which helps to temporarily numb the area.
5. Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene during the eruption process is essential. Gently brushing and flossing the area around the wisdom teeth can help prevent infection and reduce discomfort.
6. Avoid Hard or Chewy Foods
When your wisdom teeth are coming in, it’s best to avoid foods that are hard, chewy, or require a lot of chewing. These can aggravate the pain and make it more difficult for your gums to heal.
7. Visit Your Dentist
If the pain persists or becomes unbearable, it’s important to consult your dentist. They may recommend an X-ray to assess the position of your wisdom teeth and determine whether any additional treatment is necessary.
When Should You See A Dentist?
While mild discomfort is common during the eruption of wisdom teeth, there are certain signs that may indicate the need for professional treatment:
Severe pain that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter painkillers
Noticeable swelling or redness around the gums
Difficulty swallowing or opening your mouth
A bad taste or odor in your mouth
A fever or other signs of infection
In some cases, your dentist may recommend the removal of your wisdom teeth, especially if they are impacted or causing significant pain. Wisdom teeth extraction is a common procedure, and it can help prevent future complications, such as infection, misalignment of other teeth, or damage to nearby structures.
Conclusion
It is normal for gums to hurt when wisdom teeth come in, and this discomfort is often due to the pressure of the emerging tooth, limited space in the mouth, or inflammation of the surrounding tissue. While the pain can be bothersome, there are several ways to manage it, including over-the-counter pain relievers, saltwater rinses, and cold compresses.
If the pain becomes severe or if you notice other symptoms such as swelling, fever, or pus, it’s essential to consult your dentist. They can help determine if your wisdom teeth need to be removed or if any other treatment is necessary.
