Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn
Reading time: 4 minutes
Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, often cause pain when they erupt (or TRY to erupt) in the late teens or early adulthood.
This discomfort can stem from inflammation, gum infections, or pressure against neighboring teeth.
In this blog, we provide 7 effective remedies to relieve wisdom tooth pain and provide guidance on when to see a dentist and when removal may be necessary.
We see patients for wisdom teeth removal at our Denver, Aurora and Thornton locations.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
To ease wisdom tooth pain, use saltwater rinses, clove oil, and cold compresses for temporary relief. If pain lasts more than three days or worsens, seek professional evaluation and possible removal.
Why Wisdom Teeth Cause Pain
Wisdom teeth pain occurs due to several factors:
- Lack of space: If there is not enough room in your jaw, wisdom teeth may grow at an odd angle or push against nearby teeth.
- Impacted teeth: When wisdom teeth do not fully emerge, they can create pressure and lead to gum infections.
- Food particles and bacteria: Trapped debris can lead to bacterial infection, causing swelling, pain, and bad breath.
- Inflamed gum tissue: Partially erupted teeth expose gum tissue, making it more vulnerable to infections and irritation.
If the pain is severe or persistent, schedule a consultation with our dental surgeon Dr. Tasos Belegratis, who specializes in wisdom tooth removal at our Denver, Aurora or Thornton locations.
For more information on why we have wisdom teeth, check out this blog: Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
Effective Home Remedies for Wisdom Tooth Pain Relief
While professional treatment is often necessary, these natural home remedies can provide temporary relief:
1. Saltwater Rinse
- Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.
- Swish the solution around your mouth for 15-20 minutes.
- Helps reduce bacteria, decrease inflammation, and promote gum health.
2. Cold Compress
- Apply ice cubes wrapped in a towel to the affected area.
- Hold for 15-20 minutes, then remove.
- Reduces swelling and numbs the jaw pain.
3. Clove Oil
- Soak a cotton ball in drops of clove oil and place it near the painful tooth.
- Clove oil contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, acting as a natural pain reliever.
4. Peppermint Tea or Oil
- Rinse with peppermint tea or apply peppermint oil using a cotton swab.
- Contains numbing properties and anti-inflammatory benefits.
5. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
- Use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen to ease inflammation and dental pain relief.
- Follow dosage instructions carefully for safe use.
6. Antiseptic Mouthwash or Tea Tree Oil
- Use antiseptic mouthwashes or tea tree oil (diluted in water) for an oral rinse.
- Helps kill bacteria and prevent gum infections.
When to See a Dentist
While simple home remedies can provide temporary pain relief, you should seek professional advice if:
- Pain lasts longer than three days.
- There is severe pain, swelling, or difficulty opening your mouth.
- You experience persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste, which may indicate infection.
- You notice bleeding or pus around the wisdom teeth.
Preventing Future Wisdom Tooth Pain
To maintain good oral health and prevent wisdom teeth issues, follow these tips:
- Schedule regular dental check-ups to monitor wisdom teeth development.
- Maintain proper care by brushing and flossing daily. Pay special attention to the molars at the very back. Make sure to floss those teeth too!
- Avoid sugary foods, which can lead to bacterial infections.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Schedule an Appointment for a Wisdom Teeth Evaluation
Only a dentist can determine if wisdom tooth removal is necessary. A comprehensive evaluation, including an X-ray, will help assess the positioning and potential issues with wisdom teeth.
If your wisdom teeth are impacted or causing pain, early intervention can prevent further dental issues.
At Youth Dentistry & Orthodontics, we are here to help your smile stay bright and strong. We accept Medicaid and offer dental services for kids of all ages.
Call the location nearest to you to schedule an appointment:
📍Denver Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 1400 Grove Street, Denver, CO 80204 | (303) 825-2295
📍Aurora Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 14251 E. 6th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80011 | (303) 343-3133
📍Thornton Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 550 E. Thornton Parkway, Suite 240A, Thornton, CO 80229 | (303) 280-8878📍Hampden Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 7400 East Hampden Ave. Unit C1, Denver, CO 80231 | (720) 826-3694
