How long does wisdom tooth growing pain last? Wisdom teeth growth is a right of passage everyone must go through. Establishing themselves in the teen years, they mark a pivotal point in your oral health and are often seen as a sign of maturity. But that doesn’t make the process any less painful.

This article will explore the causes of wisdom tooth pain and offer up some helpful tips on how to manage it.

Understanding Wisdom Teeth and How They Grow

Before discussing the pain they cause, it would be helpful to quickly review wisdom teeth themselves and how they grow. Unlike other teeth, wisdom teeth tend to grow later in life, usually between the ages of 15 and 25. Often referred to as “third molars”, they are embedded  further back in the gums and begin to protrude over time. While some people have no issues with their wisdom teeth, for others, the pain is nearly unbearable. There are a lot of nerves, moving parts and factors involved, and depending on your luck and dental health, your experience might vary.

How Long Does Wisdom Tooth Growing Pain Last?

The most common cause of wisdom tooth pain is impacted teeth. This means the teeth are too big for the jaw bone and cannot erupt into the mouth properly. When this happens, they become blocked and can cause a great deal of pain. Other causes of wisdom tooth pain include cysts and infections, either of which can cause extreme discomfort. Wisdom teeth can also sometimes push against other teeth or nerves, resulting in pain and other issues. Depending on the situation, wisdom tooth pain can last until tooth maturity or until they are removed. However, there are also ways to reduce the pain in the meantime.

Ways to Reduce the Pain of Growing Wisdom Teeth

While wisdom teeth are inevitable, there are plenty of ways to mitigate the pain they cause.

These include:

Over-The-Counter Painkillers – Taking ibuprofen or other painkillers can help reduce inflammation and dull the ache felt in your jaw.

Ice – Ice is an effective way to reduce swelling and provide temporary relief. Simply apply an ice pack or a cold compress to the afflicted area for 10 minutes at a time.

Salt Water Rinse – As a natural disinfectant, salt water can help clean the area around your wisdom teeth and potentially reduce the pain they cause.

Gargle Warm Water – Gargling warm water is another great technique that can help reduce pain. Do this several times a day to help keep the area clean and prevent infection.

When to Visit Your Dentist

If you’re experiencing extreme symptoms, it’s important to visit your dentist immediately. They will be able to take a look at the area and determine the scope of the issue. Depending on the severity, they may recommend extraction or other procedures to alleviate your symptoms.

Regardless of how it manifests itself, wisdom tooth pain requires attention and should not be overlooked. At Jamestowne South Dental, we are ready to help you manage the symptoms caused by your wisdom teeth and provide a long-term solution if needed. Visit our website to learn more about what we offer and how we can help you take control of your oral health.