Wisdom Tooth Pain: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Third molars, more commonly known as wisdom teeth, are the last set of teeth to emerge in the mouth. They appear between the ages of 17 and 25 but can also show up later in life. While some people don't experience problems with their wisdom teeth, others develop pain and overcrowding in the mouth. Our professionals at Elegant Smiles can alleviate this discomfort through state-of-the-art oral surgery.

So, what are the symptoms of wisdom tooth pain, what causes it, and how is it treated? And how long is wisdom tooth recovery? If you have these questions or more, call now to book an appointment in Las Vegas, NV.

What are the symptoms of an impacted tooth?

An impacted tooth occurs when there is not enough space in the mouth for it to fully emerge. This causes a lot of pain, especially if the tooth becomes infected or pushes against other teeth. Some common symptoms of an impacted wisdom tooth include:

• Pain or tenderness in the back of the mouth
• Difficulty opening the mouth
• Swelling around the jaw
• Difficulty brushing and flossing properly

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, book an appointment with one of our dentists at Elegant Smiles as soon as possible.

What causes wisdom tooth pain?

Wisdom tooth pain can happen for a variety of reasons. One of the most common causes is an impacted wisdom tooth, as mentioned earlier. Other factors include infection, gum disease, cavities, or even misalignment. In some cases, pain may be the result of excess pressure from neighboring teeth. Instead of waiting for the pain to subside or taking over-the-counter drugs, a professional dentist can diagnose and treat the underlying cause.

Treatment options for wisdom tooth pain

At Elegant Smiles, our procedures are designed to alleviate pain and prevent further complications. In most cases, oral surgery (a tooth extraction) is recommended to remove impacted wisdom teeth.

During a wisdom tooth extraction in Las Vegas, NV, we use local anesthesia to make you feel as comfortable as possible. A simple extraction involves removing the tooth with forceps, while a surgical extraction may require an incision in the gums to access the tooth. Sometimes, a tooth is broken down into smaller pieces for easier removal. Once the impacted tooth is removed, we provide aftercare instructions and medications to manage pain or swelling.

How long is wisdom tooth recovery?

So, how long is wisdom tooth recovery? The timeline will depend on the type and complexity of the extraction and how well you follow post-operative instructions, but it can take several days to a couple of weeks for your mouth to heal. During this time, it's important to follow a soft food diet and avoid strenuous activities that could disrupt the healing process. Rest assured that our team at Elegant Smiles will monitor your progress and provide follow-up care.

Ask about tooth extraction for wisdom tooth pain

An impacted tooth or wisdom tooth can greatly impact your overall oral health, so don't wait until the pain becomes unbearable. Call Elegant Smiles to book an appointment and discuss your options for relief in Las Vegas, NV, including oral surgery. Our team is dedicated to providing custom dental care and helping you have a healthy, virtually pain-free smile for life.