You're not alone. Many people in Hobart experience pain from wisdom teeth, which can significantly disrupt their daily lives. These third molars typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 25, but they can cause various oral health problems if they fail to erupt properly.
What Causes Wisdom Teeth Pain?
Wisdom teeth pain can have several causes, including:
- Impaction: When there isn't enough space in the jaw for the wisdom tooth to fully emerge, it may become impacted or trapped beneath the gum line.
- Infection: If the wisdom tooth partially erupts, bacteria can enter the area and cause an infection, leading to pain and swelling.
- Cavity or decay: Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, making them difficult to clean.
- Gum disease: In some cases, gum disease can develop around the wisdom tooth, leading to pain and inflammation.
Why Choose Innova Dental for Wisdom Teeth Treatment?
At Innova Dental, we understand how important it is to address wisdom teeth problems quickly. We aim to deliver timely care to help manage symptoms and support your ongoing oral health.
In addition to standard approaches for wisdom-teeth discomfort, we offer options such as Full arch implants and dentures. These dentures are designed to provide a stable fit and a more natural appearance for those replacing missing teeth.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, the third molars, are the last group of teeth to emerge in your mouth. These teeth typically appear at the back of your mouth, with two on the top and two on the bottom.
The majority of individuals grow wisdom teeth between the ages 17 to 25. This timing varies significantly among individuals, with some experiencing early emergence while others might notice their wisdom teeth later in life.
These teeth earned their name due to their late arrival, appearing during what was traditionally considered the "age of wisdom." While our ancestors relied on these additional molars for grinding tough foods, modern diets and smaller jaw sizes have made wisdom teeth less essential for daily function.
Your wisdom teeth can emerge in different positions:
- Fully erupted - breaking through the gum completely
- Partially erupted - only part of the tooth is visible
- Impacted - trapped beneath the gum or jawbone
Recognising Symptoms of Problematic Wisdom Teeth
Early detection of wisdom teeth issues helps prevent complications. Watch for these warning signs:
- Swollen, tender gums around the back of your mouth
- Persistent jaw stiffness or difficulty opening your mouth
- Bleeding or red gums near your back molars
- Bad breath or an unpleasant taste that won't go away
- Headaches or pressure in your jaw area
- Difficulty eating due to pain or sensitivity
A dentist can assess your wisdom teeth through x-rays and clinical examination to determine the best treatment approach.
At Innova Dental, we offer thorough wisdom-teeth assessments to help spot potential issues early. In some cases, such as when dental implants are required, understanding whether insurance covers the cost can be beneficial. We can help you explore funding options, insurance, payment plans or superannuation to support your implant treatment..
Seeking Relief: Home Remedies for Wisdom Teeth Pain
Effective home remedies can provide temporary comfort while you await professional dental supervision. Here are proven methods to manage wisdom teeth discomfort:
1. Cold Compress Application
- Apply ice packs to the affected area
- Rest for 15 minutes between applications
- Repeat this cycle to reduce swelling and numb the pain
2. Safe Pain Management
- Take appropriate over-the-counter pain relievers
- Use saltwater rinses to cleanse the area
- Apply clove oil directly to the painful spot
3. Gentle Care Techniques
- Maintain soft food diet
- Avoid extreme temperature foods
- Clean the area with extra care using a soft-bristled toothbrush
These temporary solutions help manage discomfort but should not replace professional dental treatment. A skilled dentist can provide a proper assessment and create a treatment plan for your specific situation.
When to Consult a Dentist for Wisdom Teeth Pain
Seek immediate dental care if you experience:
- Severe, persistent pain lasting more than 48 hours
- Difficulty opening your mouth or swallowing
- Swollen lymph nodes under your jaw
- Fever accompanied by dental pain
- Bad taste or odour in your mouth
- Visible pus around the affected area
A dental examination allows your dentist to assess the position of your wisdom teeth through X-rays and determine the most appropriate treatment plan. If wisdom teeth are stuck or causing problems, a dentist may suggest removing wisdom teeth to avoid future issues.
However, if the pain is due to an infection or decay in a different tooth, a root canal treatment might be necessary to save the tooth and alleviate the pain.
Our skilled team uses precise surgical techniques that may help reduce your recovery period. We use modern techniques designed to make treatments as comfortable as possible, helping you regain ease and maintain your oral health.
Preventive Measures to Maintain Healthy Wisdom Teeth
Proactive dental care helps prevent wisdom teeth complications. A consistent oral hygiene routine includes:
- Brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Gentle flossing around the wisdom teeth areas
- Using an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacteria
Regular dental check-ups at Innova Dental Rosny allow early detection of potential wisdom teeth issues. Our skilled dentists use imaging technology to track wisdom teeth development and position.
In some cases, if there are complications with the wisdom teeth removed, we also provide dental implants as an emergency dental solution. This can be particularly beneficial for those facing issues like missing teeth or bone loss due to gum disease.