For most people, the wisdom teeth grow in when they’re in their late teens or early twenties.
For some, this poses no problem at all. However, many people’s teeth don’t come in correctly, or there simply isn’t enough room for these final molars, which can cause considerable pain. In fact, even if your wisdom teeth are coming in straight and there’s enough room for them, you may experience some discomfort as they grow.
Here’s what you can do if you’re suffering from wisdom tooth pain.
Keep the area clean. To avoid infection, rinse your mouth with saltwater or mouthwash after every meal. You should also chew on the opposite side to ensure food doesn’t get stuck in the area the new tooth is growing, as this could cause an infection.
Take pain medication. Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen can help relieve dull pain in your gums or in your head caused by a new tooth growing as well as reduce any swelling.
Use oral pain reliever gels. These can temporarily numb the area where your tooth is growing in. They’re available without prescription at the pharmacy.
Ice it. If your gums have become swollen or irritated, or if your new tooth is cutting into your cheek when you eat, ice can help. You can place a small ice cube directly where the tooth is growing or place an icepack on the outside of your cheek.
When To See A Dentist
In many cases, when the tooth has erupted through the gums, the discomfort will go away. However, the wisdom teeth may not grow in properly and that can cause significant problems. In any case it’s important to continue to see your dentist regularly and to keep them informed about what you’re experiencing.
Your dentist will probably want to take X-rays of your jaw to see how and where your wisdom teeth are growing in and at what angle. If your wisdom teeth are impacted or growing in the wrong way, your dentist may recommend tooth extraction surgery. Removing the tooth will ensure the rest of your teeth aren’t negatively affected by the new growth.
If you’re experiencing serious pain that interferes with daily activities, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible. Emergency extraction surgery may help relieve your pain for good.
Family Dentistry In Calgary
Are your wisdom teeth coming in? The team at Forest Lawn Dental offers affordable treatment options to the people of SE Calgary and the rest of the city. Call us today to make an appointment.