Wisdom tooth pain is a common complaint among teens and young adults, but it can catch anyone off guard. These third molars are often the last teeth to emerge, and when they don’t develop properly, discomfort can follow. Understanding what causes wisdom tooth pain can help you recognize when it’s time to seek care and prevent more serious complications.
Lack of Space in the Jaw
One of the most common causes of wisdom tooth pain is simply a lack of room. Many jaws aren’t large enough to accommodate these extra molars, causing them to push against neighboring teeth as they try to emerge. This pressure can lead to aching, tenderness, or a constant feeling of discomfort in the back of the mouth.
Crowding can also affect the alignment of surrounding teeth, increasing sensitivity and soreness over time.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are considered impacted when they are trapped beneath the gums or jawbone and cannot fully erupt. Impacted teeth may grow at an angle or remain partially erupted, which can irritate nearby tissue and cause persistent pain.
Because impacted wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, they are more prone to infection and inflammation, both of which can worsen discomfort.
Gum Inflammation and Infection
When a wisdom tooth partially breaks through the gums, it creates an opening where bacteria and food particles can collect. This can lead to inflammation of the surrounding gum tissue, causing swelling, redness, and pain.
In some cases, infection may develop, resulting in more severe symptoms such as throbbing pain, bad breath, or difficulty opening the mouth. These signs often indicate that treatment is needed to prevent the infection from spreading.
Tooth Decay
Wisdom teeth are located far back in the mouth, making them harder to reach with a toothbrush and floss. As a result, they are more vulnerable to tooth decay. Cavities in wisdom teeth can cause sensitivity to temperature, pressure, or sweetness, and the pain may worsen over time.
Decay that is left untreated can eventually lead to infection or damage to neighboring teeth.
Jaw Stiffness and Headaches
Wisdom tooth pain doesn’t always stay localized to the tooth itself. Some people experience jaw stiffness, ear pain, or headaches due to pressure and inflammation caused by erupting or impacted wisdom teeth.
These symptoms may feel worse in the morning or after chewing, especially if swelling is present.
When Wisdom Tooth Pain Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Occasional soreness may be manageable, but ongoing or worsening pain is often a sign of a more serious issue. Swelling, fever, difficulty chewing, or persistent jaw pain should be evaluated promptly to avoid complications.
Addressing wisdom tooth pain early can help prevent infection and protect your long-term oral health.
About the Practice
Villagio Family Dental offers comprehensive dental care with a focus on preventive and restorative services for patients of all ages. Our practice provides evaluation and treatment for wisdom tooth concerns, including extractions when necessary. With an amazing dental team, we emphasize patient comfort, education, and personalized care to help patients maintain healthy, pain-free smiles.
Call us at (281) 395-2100 or request an appointment online.