Our mouths go through a lot of changes throughout our lives, and wisdom teeth are a prime example. These late bloomers erupt in our late teens or early twenties, but what exactly are they and why do we even have them?
Wisdom teeth
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the furthest back teeth in your mouth. They were thought to be advantageous for our ancestors who ate a coarser diet requiring extra grinding power. However, modern humans with softer diets often have jaws that are simply too small to comfortably accommodate these extra molars. According to research shared on Vital Europe the disappearance of wisdom teeth will be the next step of evolution but until that happens let’s discover more about those third molars!
Impacted wisdom teeth
When there’s not enough space for the teeth to come through, wisdom teeth can become impacted. This means they get stuck under the gum line or come in at an awkward angle, potentially causing a number of problems such as:
Pain and swelling: Impacted teeth can irritate the surrounding gum tissue, leading to pain and swelling.
Infection: Food particles can easily get trapped around impacted teeth, increasing the risk of infection.
Damage to other teeth: Pressure from erupting wisdom teeth can crowd or damage nearby teeth.
Cyst formation: In rare cases, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to the development of fluid-filled sacs (cysts) in the jawbone.
Why do wisdom teeth hurt?
Aswell as impacted wisdom teeth, there are a few reasons why your wisdom teeth might be causing you discomfort, including:
- Eruption: The process of breaking through the gum can be painful.
- Inflammation: Impaction can irritate the surrounding gum tissue, causing swelling and pain.
- Infection: If bacteria get trapped around an impacted tooth, infection can set in, leading to significant pain.
If any of these symptoms occur it can be painful and irritating. Please book in an appointment with us. We can offer X-rays and a consultation to see how your wisdom teeth are coming through and offer solutions.
Book a wisdom tooth appointment
Soothing wisdom tooth pain at home
While wisdom teeth pain can be frustrating, there are some things you can try at home to find temporary relief if you are waiting for your appointment with us.
Over-the-counter pain relievers: Painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol can help manage discomfort. If you’ve recently had your wisdom teeth removed, ibuprofen can specifically target inflammation during healing.
Warm saltwater rinse: Mix half a teaspoon of salt in warm water (about half a glass). Swish thoroughly around the sore area and spit. Repeat 1-2 times a day. Saltwater helps reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.
Clove oil (use with caution): This natural remedy might offer some relief. Apply a small amount of clove oil from a pharmacy to a cotton swab and place it on the affected gum tissue. A whole clove can also be used but be careful!
Teething gel (temporary relief): Bonjela or similar gels can provide temporary numbing or pain dulling.
Cold Therapy: Apply an ice pack to your cheek for 20 minutes at a time, followed by a 20-minute break. You can use a commercial face pack or wrap a towel around frozen vegetables. Remember, these are temporary solutions. Always book a consultation with us if your wisdom teeth are giving you any pain so we can check them out for you.
Wisdom tooth surgery: When extraction is necessary
If your wisdom teeth are causing problems, we may recommend surgical removal. There is further information on the NHS website about wisdom tooth removal and what to expect. Following your wisdom tooth surgery, it’s crucial to follow our post-operative instructions carefully. Here are some key points to remember:
Pain management: Take prescribed pain medication as directed.
Rest and recovery: Get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activity for the first few days.
Ice therapy: Apply ice packs to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling.
Gentle rinsing: Start rinsing with warm salt water after 24 hours to promote healing and prevent infection.
Soft food diet: Stick to soft foods for the first week or so to allow the extraction site to heal properly.
Wisdom teeth might be a leftover from our evolutionary past, but they can cause very real problems in the present. By understanding wisdom teeth and following proper dental advice, you can navigate this stage of dental development smoothly. Remember, if you have any concerns about your wisdom teeth, please contact our friendly team today on 01865 692943 or info@thewhitebridgeclinic.co.uk.
