It Hurts To Open My Mouth Wide Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth to grow in a person's mouth. They usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Although not everyone experiences issues with their wisdom teeth, many people suffer from pain and discomfort when these teeth push through the gums.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Pain?
Wisdom teeth can cause pain when they push through the gums. This can lead to swelling, redness, and inflammation. Sometimes, the teeth can become impacted, which means they don't have enough room to come in properly. This can cause pain and pressure in the surrounding teeth and gums.
Another reason why wisdom teeth can cause pain is because they can become infected. When a wisdom tooth partially emerges, food and bacteria can get trapped under the gum flap, leading to an infection. This can cause pain, swelling, and even fever.
What Are the Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Pain?
The symptoms of wisdom teeth pain can vary depending on the cause of the pain. Some common symptoms include:
- Pain or discomfort in the back of the mouth
- Swelling and redness of the gums
- Difficulty opening the mouth wide
- Headaches or jaw pain
- Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
- Fever or chills (in cases of infection)
How Can I Relieve Wisdom Teeth Pain?
If you're experiencing wisdom teeth pain, there are several things you can do to relieve your symptoms. These include:
- Using over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Applying an ice pack to the affected area to reduce swelling
- Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water to help reduce inflammation
- Using a numbing gel on the affected area
- Avoiding hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that can irritate the area
- Scheduling an appointment with your dentist to have your wisdom teeth evaluated
When Should I See a Dentist?
If you're experiencing wisdom teeth pain, it's important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist can evaluate your teeth and gums to determine the cause of your pain and recommend the best course of treatment.
In some cases, your dentist may recommend that your wisdom teeth be removed. This is often the case if your teeth are impacted or causing other dental issues.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth pain can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. However, there are several things you can do to relieve your symptoms and improve your oral health. If you're experiencing wisdom teeth pain, be sure to see a dentist for an evaluation and treatment.