Wisdom tooth pain

Overview

Gum over a partly erupted tooth can get infected.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Pain at the back of the jaw
• Pain at the back of the jaw behind the last teeth

Less common

• Swollen gums
• Bad taste

Look up a symptom: Pain at the back of the jaw behind the last teeth · Swollen gum, cheek, or jaw near a tooth · Toothache or tooth sensitive to hot, cold, or sweets

When to get medical care

Causes

Little room in the jaw.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Young adults

Possible complications

• Tooth abscess

Diagnosis

A dentist examines.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Dental X-ray:

Treatment

Ease pain and see a dentist.

Self-care

• Rinse with salt water
• Keep the area clean

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Brush back teeth well

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your dentist.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can go back to school or work the same day or the next day.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Ages 17 to 25: Most common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Removal fixes it.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Should they come out?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Wisdom tooth pain