Wisdom tooth erupting and hurting as heck. Is that normal?

Question

One of my lower wisdom teeth, which have started erupting a while ago is suddenly hurting a lot. The gum around that tooth is sore and swollen. I don't think it is impacted because I had a dental x-ray done a couple years ago and was told that all 4 of my wisdom teeth are growing straight so it isn't necessary to remove them. I also had 4 of my normal back teeth pulled out for braces when I was young so the wisdom teeth have got space to grow.

I'm not sure what is causing the pain but I've been told that the pain may be normal during the eruption of wisdom teeth. Will the pain go away after a while? What other reasons apart from impacted teeth can cause such pain?

I have my finals coming up in less than a week so I won't be able to go to the dentist and end up with sore cheeks unless it's something persistent and serious.

Additional Details

Thanks! That really helped. At least I don't have to worry about getting my tooth removed for the time being. As for taking ibuprofen, is there a recommended dose for this infection in particular?

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

You have a pericornitis which is an infection caused by food, plaque, and bacteria being under the flap of gum tissue that lies over the tooth. To help this take a teaspoon of salt and mix it in a cup of warm water. Swish the area and spit out until the cup is used up. do this at least every 2 hour while you are awake. Also you can take some ibuprofen every 6 hours. In 2-3 days things should feel much better. If not you will need to be on some antibiotics also. If this continues to flare up over the next several months you will need to see the dentist again to have the status of your wisdom teeth re evaluated. good luck.

Source(s):

I'm a dentist

Asker's Rating:

Asker's Comment:

Thanks!