As prevalent as wisdom teeth are, there sadly isn’t any real value to them. Unlike their name, you don’t suddenly become wise once they erupt. Nor do wisdom teeth help with everyday functionality. However, if there is one thing these molars are known for, it’s the pain they come with. So much so that people often ask us in fear, “how long does wisdom tooth growing pain last”? That is why in this blog, we’ve discussed how to identify signs your wisdom teeth are coming in and how long the pain tends to last.
Is It Normal To Feel Pain When Wisdom Teeth Are Coming In?
Wisdom teeth used to be very useful back in the day. Since our ancestors had large jaws, they needed four pairs of molars to help with chewing and eating. However, due to evolution, we no longer require an extra pair of teeth. Over time, our jaws have gotten smaller and our mouths more compact. This is why, when wisdom teeth erupt, they have to push through the gums – and sometimes even through other teeth – to pop out. It is because of this pushing and shoving that people experience an onset of pain. This is completely normal and to be expected. Usually, taking pain relievers can help with the ache.
How Long Does Wisdom Tooth Growing Pain Last
It depends on the condition of your teeth. That is to say, the position your wisdom teeth is growing in can greatly affect the overall outcome. An impacted tooth would hurt far more and longer than a normal growing tooth. Similarly, the pain can be far more severe if you’re dealing with an infected tooth. On average, however, wisdom tooth growing pain can last anywhere from a week to months.
To prevent these bouts of pain, it is important to consult with your dentist. Once you have identified the position of the wisdom tooth, it can help you plan your next step from there on out. Depending on your mouth shape and size, you can either let it sprout normally or schedule a wisdom tooth extraction surgery.
Signs Your Wisdom Teeth Are Coming In
If you think your wisdom tooth is about to erupt, but you can’t see the tooth just yet, here are some signs to help recognize the problem:
- Swollen gums
- Throbbing toothache
- Pain radiating all the way to your jaw, ear, and neck
- Difficulty opening mouth.
- Inability to chew
- Soreness in throat
- Red or tender gums.
- Bad taste in mouth
- Headaches
Tips To Relieve Wisdom Tooth Pain
Dealing with a wisdom tooth during its growing phase can be excruciating. That is why to help reduce the pain; you can try following the tips mentioned below.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Apply a cold compress over your jaw.
- Regularly rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution.
- Use numbing gel on the affected area.
- Consult with a dental professional about the pain.
Conclusion
All in all, if you were wondering how long wisdom tooth growing pain last, it depends on your specific case. By visiting a dentist, you can confirm the position of your wisdom tooth and decide on the best possible solution.
For more information on wisdom teeth and their extraction process, contact Katy Cypress Oral Surgery at (281) 667-0607. You can also come and find us at 6155 N Fry Rd, suite 600, Katy, TX 77449, located right next to Smoothie King.