Gum Pain Where Wisdom Teeth Used To Be
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge in the back of the mouth. For many people, wisdom teeth can cause problems when they start to grow, leading to pain and discomfort. Even after they have been removed, gum pain where wisdom teeth used to be can occur.
Why do wisdom teeth cause pain?
Wisdom teeth can cause pain due to a variety of reasons. One of the most common reasons is because there isn't enough room in the mouth for them to grow properly. This can cause the teeth to become impacted and push against other teeth, leading to pain and discomfort.
Another reason wisdom teeth can cause pain is due to infection. When wisdom teeth are partially erupted, they can create a small opening in the gum that can allow bacteria to enter and cause an infection. This can lead to pain, swelling, and even fever.
What are the symptoms of gum pain where wisdom teeth used to be?
When you have gum pain where wisdom teeth used to be, you may experience a variety of symptoms. These can include:
- Swollen, tender gums
- Bleeding gums
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Bad breath
- A foul taste in your mouth
How can you relieve gum pain where wisdom teeth used to be?
If you are experiencing gum pain where your wisdom teeth used to be, there are several things you can do to relieve the pain:
- Apply a cold compress to the affected area to reduce swelling
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater
- Take over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen
- Avoid eating hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that can irritate the gums
- Brush and floss gently, avoiding the area where your wisdom teeth used to be
When should you see a dentist?
If your gum pain where your wisdom teeth used to be is severe, lasts more than a few days, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or difficulty swallowing, you should see a dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist can examine the affected area and recommend treatment options, such as antibiotics or further surgery.
It's also important to see a dentist if you have had your wisdom teeth removed and are experiencing gum pain, as this could be a sign of infection or another complication.
Conclusion
Gum pain where wisdom teeth used to be can be a frustrating and uncomfortable problem to deal with. However, with proper care and treatment, you can relieve the pain and prevent further complications. If you are experiencing gum pain, it's important to see a dentist to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.