Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last set of teeth to emerge in the mouth. They typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. Some people may develop all four wisdom teeth, while others might have fewer or none at all. The process of wisdom teeth erupting can be painful and sometimes lead to dental complications.
Wisdom teeth often cause discomfort because there is limited space in the mouth. As they try to come in, they may push against other teeth, become impacted, or only partially erupt. This can result in pain, swelling, and even gum inflammation or gum disease if not treated properly.
When Does Wisdom Teeth Pain Start and Stop?
When Pain Begins
Wisdom teeth pain usually begins as they start to push through the gums. This can happen around the late teenage years or early twenties. The initial pain is often dull and achy, and it may come and go.
The pain may worsen when a wisdom tooth is impacted, which means it is trapped under the gum or grows at an awkward angle. Impacted wisdom teeth can put pressure on neighboring teeth and cause infections or inflammation.
When Pain Typically Ends
In general, wisdom teeth stop hurting once they have fully emerged and settled in their proper position. This process can take a few weeks to several months. In some cases, however, the pain will not stop until the wisdom teeth are removed by a dentist.
If the wisdom teeth are healthy, properly aligned, and do not crowd other teeth, the pain should subside naturally. But if there are complications such as infection, impaction, or misalignment, the discomfort may persist until appropriate treatment is performed.
Common Causes of Wisdom Teeth Pain
Impaction
One of the main causes of persistent pain is impacted wisdom teeth. These teeth do not have enough room to erupt and may remain trapped in the jaw. They can cause swelling, pain, and pressure on adjacent teeth.
Gum Inflammation and Pericoronitis
When a wisdom tooth only partially emerges, it creates a flap of gum tissue that can trap food and bacteria. This often leads to pericoronitis, a localized gum inflammation and infection. Symptoms include swelling, pain, bad breath, and difficulty chewing or opening the mouth.
Crowding and Tooth Shifting
Wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding, pushing other teeth out of alignment. This creates pressure and pain, particularly in the back of the mouth and jaw.
Cavities and Gum Disease
Because wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, they are harder to clean. This can lead to dental caries (cavities) and gum disease. Both conditions can cause pain, sensitivity, and bad breath.
How Long Does Wisdom Teeth Pain Last?
Temporary Pain
If the wisdom teeth erupt without complications, pain may only last a few days or weeks. Over-the-counter pain relievers and proper oral hygiene can help manage the symptoms.
Prolonged Pain
If there are issues such as impaction, gum inflammation, or infection, the pain can last for months. In these cases, dental intervention is often necessary to resolve the issue.
When Should You See a Dentist?
It’s important to consult a dentist if:
- Pain lasts longer than a few weeks
- There is visible swelling or redness
- You have difficulty opening your mouth
- You experience fever or signs of infection
Early evaluation by a dental professional can prevent complications. Dentists may take X-rays to determine whether your wisdom teeth are impacted or causing other problems.
Treatment Options for Wisdom Teeth Pain
Home Remedies
For mild to moderate pain, home care can help. Consider the following:
- Rinsing with warm salt water to reduce swelling and kill bacteria
- Using cold compresses to numb the pain and reduce inflammation
- Taking over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
Professional Dental Treatment
More serious cases require dental procedures. These may include:
- Cleaning and irrigation to remove trapped food and bacteria
- Antibiotics for treating infection
- Wisdom tooth extraction if the tooth is impacted or causing ongoing problems
Post-Extraction Pain and Healing
Normal Healing Timeline
If your wisdom teeth are removed, pain and swelling are normal during recovery. Most people begin to feel better within 3 to 7 days. Full healing of the extraction site may take a few weeks.
Complications to Watch For
After extraction, complications like dry socket, infection, or delayed healing can occur. If you notice persistent pain, bad taste, or swelling, contact your dentist.
Preventing Future Dental Problems
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Keeping your mouth clean helps prevent gum disease and gum inflammation. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and use antibacterial mouthwash to control plaque and bacteria.
Regular Dental Checkups
Routine visits to your dentist allow for early detection of problems. If you’re in your late teens or early twenties, your dentist may monitor your wisdom teeth with X-rays and exams.
Diet and Lifestyle
Avoid hard or sticky foods when wisdom teeth are coming in. Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and not smoking will help your gums stay healthy and reduce the risk of infection.
Wisdom Teeth and Gum Disease
Wisdom teeth are frequently linked with gum disease. Their location makes them difficult to clean, leading to plaque buildup. This buildup can cause gingivitis and progress to periodontitis if left untreated.
Signs of gum disease include:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose teeth or receding gums
If wisdom teeth are contributing to gum problems, your dentist may recommend removal to protect your oral health.
Long-Term Outlook for Wisdom Teeth
Not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed. If they come in properly and do not cause pain or problems, they may remain in place for life. However, if pain continues or complications develop, extraction is the most effective solution.
For most people, wisdom teeth stop hurting once they are removed or fully erupt without obstruction. With good oral care and regular dental visits, you can prevent many common issues related to wisdom teeth.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth pain is a common issue for many young adults. While the discomfort may stop on its own after the teeth erupt, complications such as impaction, gum inflammation, infection, or gum disease often require professional dental care.
With good oral hygiene, regular checkups, and timely treatment, you can manage wisdom teeth issues effectively and maintain long-term dental health.
