Wisdom tooth pain can be frustrating. Whether you’re waiting for them to come in or healing after removal, the soreness can make it hard to eat, talk, or focus. This guide explains how long the pain usually lasts, what causes it, how to ease the discomfort, and when to get help.
When Do Wisdom Teeth Start Growing In?
Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, usually come in between the ages of 17 and 25. Some people don’t feel anything at all. Others experience pain, swelling, or tightness in the back of the mouth. The pain can feel like pressure in the jaw or a dull ache that comes and goes.
Signs Your Wisdom Teeth Are Coming In
Common signs that wisdom teeth are starting to break through include:
- Swelling in the gums behind your back molars
- Bleeding or sore gums
- Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- Trouble opening your mouth fully
- Jaw pain or tenderness near your ears
These symptoms can come and go as the teeth slowly push through the gums.
What Causes Wisdom Tooth Pain?
Pain happens when the wisdom teeth begin to break through the gums. The pressure can cause inflammation and irritation. If the teeth grow in at an angle or get stuck under the gum (impacted), they can press on other teeth or create pockets that trap food and bacteria. This can lead to infection, swelling, and more pain.
How Long Does Wisdom Tooth Growing Pain Last?
Mild discomfort usually lasts around 7 to 10 days. But if the tooth is taking a long time to come in, you may feel on-and-off soreness for several months. In some cases, wisdom teeth take years to fully grow in. If they’re causing problems like crowding or infection, a dentist may recommend removing them.
How to Relieve Wisdom Tooth Pain at Home
You can try these simple ways to ease the pain:
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to keep the area clean
- Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods
- Take over-the-counter pain medicine like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek
These steps can help reduce swelling and irritation while your tooth continues to grow in.
When Wisdom Teeth Get Impacted
Sometimes wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to come in straight. They can get stuck under the gum or grow sideways. This is called impaction. Impacted teeth can cause:
- Constant pain in the back of the mouth
- Swollen or infected gums
- Damage to nearby teeth
- Cysts or fluid-filled sacs near the roots
- Bad breath or trouble chewing
Impacted wisdom teeth usually won’t stop hurting until they’re removed. If your pain doesn’t go away or gets worse, it’s time to talk to a dentist.
What Happens During Wisdom Tooth Removal?
If your wisdom teeth are causing problems, a dentist or oral surgeon might suggest taking them out. The procedure is usually quick. You’ll get numbing medicine, and sometimes sedation. The teeth are then removed, and the area is stitched if needed. You’ll be sent home the same day with instructions on how to care for your mouth.
How Long Does Pain Last After Wisdom Tooth Removal?
It’s normal to feel sore and swollen after surgery. Most people feel the worst pain within the first 24 hours. Pain may peak between days 3 and 6 as the healing continues. By the second week, the discomfort usually fades. The soft tissue heals in about 2 to 4 weeks, but it can take up to 6 months for the bone to fully fill in the space.
Tips to Manage Pain After Removal
Here are a few ways to feel more comfortable while healing:
- Stay hydrated, but don’t use a straw (it can cause dry socket)
- Rinse gently with warm salt water after 24 hours
- Eat soft foods like mashed potatoes, soup, or yogurt
- Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and crunchy foods
- Take the medication your dentist recommends
- Use a cold compress to reduce swelling
Stick to your dentist’s care instructions to help speed up the healing process.
When to Call the Dentist
It’s important to know when something isn’t normal. Call your dentist if you notice:
- Pain that gets worse instead of better
- Swelling that doesn’t go down after a few days
- Fever or chills
- Pus or a bad taste in your mouth
- Trouble opening your mouth or swallowing
These could be signs of an infection or other complication like dry socket.
Final Thoughts on Wisdom Tooth Pain
Wisdom tooth pain can come from the teeth growing in or healing after surgery. Most people feel better in about a week or two, especially with good care. But if the pain sticks around or something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait—get it checked out. Our team is here to help you figure out the best path forward and get you back to feeling better.
Have questions about wisdom tooth pain or removal? Call us today at (303) 933-2522 to schedule a consultation.
Category: General