Pain In Back Of Mouth Near Wisdom Teeth
Introduction
Do you feel pain in the back of your mouth? This pain can be caused by various reasons, but one common cause is wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that grow in the back of your mouth, usually in your late teens or early twenties. When these teeth start to emerge, they can cause pain and discomfort. In this article, we will explore the causes of pain in the back of the mouth near wisdom teeth and how to treat it.
What are wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third molars that grow at the back of your mouth. They usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Most people have four wisdom teeth, but some may have fewer or none at all. Wisdom teeth can cause pain and discomfort when they start to emerge because there is often not enough space for them to grow.
Causes of pain in the back of the mouth near wisdom teeth
When wisdom teeth start to emerge, they can cause pain and discomfort in the back of the mouth. This pain can be caused by several factors, including:
- Impaction: When there is not enough space for the wisdom teeth to grow, they can become impacted, or stuck, in the jawbone. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection.
- Crowding: Wisdom teeth can also cause pain and discomfort by pushing against other teeth, causing them to shift or become crowded.
- Infection: When wisdom teeth start to emerge, they can create a flap of gum tissue that can trap food and bacteria. This can lead to infection, which can cause pain and swelling.
Symptoms of pain in the back of the mouth near wisdom teeth
The symptoms of pain in the back of the mouth near wisdom teeth can vary depending on the cause. Some common symptoms include:
- Pain or discomfort in the back of the mouth
- Swelling or redness around the wisdom teeth
- Bleeding gums
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Headaches
- Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
Treatment for pain in the back of the mouth near wisdom teeth
If you are experiencing pain in the back of your mouth near your wisdom teeth, there are several treatments that your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend. These include:
- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve pain and reduce swelling.
- Antibiotics: If you have an infection, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help clear it up.
- Mouthwash: Using an antiseptic mouthwash can help reduce bacteria and promote healing.
- Warm compresses: Applying a warm compress to the affected area can help reduce pain and swelling.
- Extraction: If your wisdom teeth are causing severe pain or infection, your dentist may recommend extraction.
Preventing pain in the back of the mouth near wisdom teeth
While it may not be possible to prevent pain in the back of the mouth near wisdom teeth entirely, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include:
- Maintaining good oral hygiene: Brushing and flossing regularly can help prevent gum disease and tooth decay, which can contribute to wisdom tooth pain.
- Regular dental check-ups: Your dentist can monitor the growth of your wisdom teeth and recommend treatment if necessary.
- Avoiding smoking: Smoking can increase your risk of gum disease and infection, which can worsen wisdom tooth pain.
Conclusion
Pain in the back of the mouth near wisdom teeth can be a common issue, but it should not be ignored. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, it is important to see your dentist or oral surgeon for an evaluation. With the right treatment and preventative measures, you can reduce your risk of wisdom tooth pain and maintain good oral health.
