Introduction
Jaw pain can be caused by many factors, one of which is wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are teeth that grow at the back of your mouth. Most people have four wisdom teeth, two at the top and two at the bottom. While they usually emerge during early adulthood, some people have to have them removed due to various complications.
One of the complications that can arise from wisdom teeth is jaw pain. In this article, we will discuss the relationship between wisdom teeth and jaw pain. We will explore why wisdom teeth can cause jaw pain and what you can do to alleviate or prevent the pain.
Why Wisdom Teeth Cause Jaw Pain
Wisdom teeth can cause jaw pain for several reasons. One of the most common reasons is that there is not enough room for them to grow. As a result, they can become impacted, which means they can’t grow out of your gums. Impacted wisdom teeth can put pressure on your jawbone and cause pain.
Another reason why wisdom teeth can cause jaw pain is that they can become infected. When bacteria enter the gums around the wisdom teeth, it can lead to an infection called pericoronitis. This infection can cause pain and swelling in the jaw.
Alleviating Jaw Pain Caused by Wisdom Teeth
There are several ways to alleviate jaw pain caused by wisdom teeth. If you’re experiencing pain, you should see your dentist. They will be able to determine the cause of your pain and recommend the best course of action.
One of the most common ways to alleviate jaw pain caused by wisdom teeth is to have them removed. If your wisdom teeth are causing problems, your dentist may recommend that you have them extracted. This procedure can be done under local anesthesia, and it may take a few days to recover.
If you’re experiencing mild pain, you can try using over-the-counter pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. You can also apply a warm compress to the affected area to help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
Preventing Jaw Pain Caused by Wisdom Teeth
While it’s not always possible to prevent jaw pain caused by wisdom teeth, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk. Regular dental check-ups can help catch any problems before they become serious. Your dentist may recommend that you have your wisdom teeth removed as a preventative measure, even if they’re not causing problems yet.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is another way to reduce your risk of jaw pain caused by wisdom teeth. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash can help keep your gums healthy and prevent infections.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth can cause jaw pain for several reasons, including impacted teeth and infections. If you’re experiencing jaw pain, you should see your dentist to determine the cause of your pain and recommend the best course of action. It’s not always possible to prevent jaw pain caused by wisdom teeth, but maintaining good oral hygiene and having regular dental check-ups can help reduce your risk. If necessary, your dentist may recommend that you have your wisdom teeth removed to prevent complications.
