Why does wisdom teeth hurt? This is a common question among many individuals who are experiencing discomfort or pain in the back of their mouths. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to emerge, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. While not everyone experiences pain or complications with their wisdom teeth, for some, it can be a painful and challenging experience. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind wisdom teeth pain and what can be done to alleviate it.
Wisdom teeth can become impacted when they fail to erupt properly through the gums. This can happen due to several reasons, such as inadequate space in the jaw, misalignment, or a combination of both. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain for several reasons:
1.
Painful Emergence: When wisdom teeth begin to emerge, they can cause discomfort or pain as they push against the surrounding gums and other teeth.
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Infection: Impacted wisdom teeth can become infected, leading to pain, swelling, and other symptoms.
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Pericoronitis: This is an infection of the gum tissue surrounding the wisdom tooth that has only partially erupted. It can cause severe pain, swelling, and difficulty in opening the mouth.
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Damage to Surrounding Teeth: Impacted wisdom teeth can push against neighboring teeth, leading to crowding, misalignment, and other dental problems.
5.
Cysts or Tumors: In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can cause the formation of cysts or tumors, which can lead to pain and other complications.
When wisdom teeth hurt, it is essential to seek dental evaluation and treatment. A dentist can determine the best course of action based on the individual’s specific situation. Some common treatment options for wisdom teeth pain include:
1.
Monitoring: In some cases, the dentist may recommend monitoring the wisdom teeth to see if they erupt properly on their own or if they require extraction.
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Antibiotics: If an infection is present, the dentist may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection and alleviate pain.
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Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouth rinse, can help reduce pain and prevent further complications.
4.
Extraction: In many cases, impacted wisdom teeth need to be extracted to prevent pain, infection, and other dental problems. This is often the best long-term solution for individuals experiencing pain or complications with their wisdom teeth.
In conclusion, wisdom teeth can hurt for various reasons, primarily due to their improper eruption or impacted position. Seeking dental evaluation and treatment is crucial to alleviate pain and prevent further complications. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in the back of your mouth, it is essential to consult with a dentist to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
