Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth located at the back of the mouth. They typically emerge during the late teens or early twenties. While wisdom teeth are a natural part of dental development, their eruption can often cause discomfort or pain. Understanding whether this pain eventually stops and what factors influence it can help individuals manage their dental health more effectively. In this article, we will explore why wisdom teeth hurt, how long the pain may last, and when to seek professional treatment.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. In evolutionary terms, they were useful for our ancestors who had a diet of rougher foods like raw plants, meat, and nuts. Over time, human jaws have become smaller, making room for fewer teeth. Despite their historical significance, wisdom teeth no longer serve the same purpose in modern diets.
For many people, these teeth do not cause issues, but for others, wisdom teeth may lead to a range of problems, including infection, impaction, or misalignment, which can cause pain and discomfort.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Hurt?
There are several reasons why wisdom teeth might cause pain.
Understanding these reasons can help determine whether the pain will eventually subside or require intervention.
1. Impaction
One of the most common causes of wisdom tooth pain is impaction. When a wisdom tooth is impacted, it does not have enough room to fully emerge from the gums. This can lead to the tooth being trapped beneath the gum line, causing swelling, pain, and potential infection. Impaction can also occur if the tooth comes in at an angle, putting pressure on neighboring teeth.
2. Infection
As wisdom teeth emerge, they can create small pockets around the gums where bacteria can get trapped. These pockets can lead to infections, causing pain, redness, swelling, and even pus. If the infection is not addressed, it can lead to more serious oral health problems.
3. Cyst Formation
In some cases, a cyst may form around an impacted wisdom tooth. These cysts are filled with fluid and can cause pain and swelling in the jaw. If left untreated, cysts can damage surrounding teeth, bone, and nerves.
4. Gum Irritation
When wisdom teeth begin to break through the gums, it can cause irritation and inflammation in the surrounding gum tissue. This discomfort is typically temporary but can last for several days or weeks as the tooth continues to emerge.
5. Crowding and Misalignment
If there isn’t enough space for wisdom teeth to properly emerge, they can cause crowding and misalignment of adjacent teeth. This can lead to discomfort or pain, especially if the wisdom teeth exert pressure on neighboring teeth.
Does the Pain Eventually Stop?
In many cases, the pain associated with wisdom teeth may stop once the teeth have fully emerged or if they no longer cause an obstruction. However, the duration of pain and whether it will eventually stop depends on several factors.
1. When Wisdom Teeth Erupt Properly
If your wisdom teeth are emerging normally without any complications, the pain should gradually subside once the teeth break through the gums. This typically happens within a few weeks. Most people experience mild pain during the eruption process, but the discomfort should go away once the teeth are fully in place.
2. When Wisdom Teeth Are Impacted
If your wisdom teeth are impacted and unable to emerge properly, the pain is unlikely to go away on its own. In such cases, it’s important to seek dental advice. An impacted wisdom tooth can lead to chronic discomfort and may require removal.
Impacted wisdom teeth can also lead to further dental problems, such as infection or damage to nearby teeth, making professional intervention essential.
3. Infection and Abscess Formation
If pain from wisdom teeth is accompanied by signs of infection, such as swelling, pus, or fever, it’s unlikely that the pain will stop without treatment. Infections can be persistent and even worsen without proper care. A dentist may prescribe antibiotics or suggest the extraction of the tooth to prevent the spread of infection.
4. Cyst and Tumor Development
In rare cases, a cyst or tumor can form around an impacted wisdom tooth. These conditions can cause ongoing pain and may require surgical treatment to resolve. If left untreated, cysts or tumors can lead to permanent damage to the surrounding teeth, bones, and nerves.
5. Other Causes of Pain
Sometimes, wisdom teeth may not cause pain directly but may lead to other dental issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, or damage to the surrounding teeth. These secondary issues can cause long-term discomfort that requires professional treatment to alleviate.
How Long Does Wisdom Tooth Pain Last?
The duration of pain associated with wisdom teeth can vary. For some, the pain may last only a few days or weeks as the teeth emerge. In others, particularly those with impacted wisdom teeth, the pain may persist for months or even longer. It’s important to recognize when the pain is temporary and when it signals a more serious problem.
Temporary Pain
If your wisdom teeth are emerging and the pain is mild, it should resolve within a few days to a couple of weeks. Using over-the-counter pain relievers, applying a cold compress to the affected area, and maintaining good oral hygiene can help manage the discomfort during this time.
Persistent Pain
Pain that persists beyond a few weeks or intensifies over time should be evaluated by a dentist. Persistent pain could indicate an issue like impaction, infection, or cyst formation. A dental professional can determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
When Should You See A Dentist?
If you experience severe pain or prolonged discomfort from your wisdom teeth, it’s important to consult a dentist. Some signs that indicate the need for professional attention include:
- Severe or persistent pain that doesn’t improve
- Swelling or redness in the gums
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- Fever or a bad taste in your mouth (which could indicate an infection)
- Tooth decay or damage to neighboring teeth
A dentist will be able to assess the situation and may recommend one of the following treatments:
1. Monitoring
If your wisdom teeth are erupting normally and causing only minor discomfort, your dentist may simply monitor the situation and suggest pain management strategies until the teeth fully emerge.
2. Extraction
If your wisdom teeth are impacted, infected, or causing other complications, your dentist may recommend extraction. Wisdom tooth removal is a routine procedure that can help alleviate pain and prevent future dental problems.
3. Antibiotics
If an infection is present, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to control the infection before recommending any further procedures, such as extraction.
Conclusion
Wisdom tooth pain can be a significant source of discomfort, but in many cases, it will eventually stop as the teeth emerge or once the underlying issue is addressed. If you are experiencing pain from your wisdom teeth, it’s important to seek professional advice to determine whether the pain is a natural part of the eruption process or a sign of a more serious issue.
Early intervention can help prevent long-term complications and ensure that your wisdom teeth do not cause further oral health problems.
