Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of teeth at the back of your mouth that usually emerge in the late teenage years or early twenties. The process of wisdom teeth eruption can bring about various oral health concerns, one of the most common being gum swelling. But why do your gums swell when wisdom teeth come in, and is this swelling normal? In this article, we will explore the causes of gum swelling during wisdom tooth eruption, the symptoms to watch for, and the best treatment options to manage the discomfort.
Why Do Gums Swell When Wisdom Teeth Come In?
The eruption of wisdom teeth often causes the gums to swell, and there are several reasons for this. Understanding the causes of this swelling can help you determine whether it is part of the normal eruption process or a sign of something more serious.
Teething Process
As your wisdom teeth begin to emerge through the gum tissue, it is normal for the gums to become irritated. The force exerted by the tooth pushing through the soft tissue can cause inflammation, which manifests as swelling and tenderness in the affected area. This is a natural part of the teething process, similar to when other teeth come in, although it may be more noticeable with wisdom teeth due to the location at the back of the mouth.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
In some cases, wisdom teeth may not have enough space to fully emerge. This condition is known as an impacted wisdom tooth. Impacted teeth can cause gum swelling because the tooth is stuck beneath the gum line and unable to fully break through. As a result, pressure builds up in the surrounding tissue, leading to inflammation. This can be painful and may require intervention, such as a dental extraction, to resolve.
Infection (Pericoronitis)
Infection is another reason why your gums may swell when wisdom teeth come in. As wisdom teeth emerge, the surrounding gum tissue can form a flap that partially covers the tooth. This creates a space where food particles and bacteria can accumulate, leading to infection. The infection, known as pericoronitis, causes severe swelling, pain, and even pus around the affected tooth. In such cases, antibiotics may be required to clear the infection, and further dental treatment, such as tooth extraction, may be necessary.
Gum Irritation
Sometimes, the eruption of wisdom teeth causes general irritation in the gum tissue without leading to infection. The gum tissue may become swollen simply due to the tooth pushing against it. This irritation can be temporary and may subside once the tooth has fully erupted.
Symptoms of Swollen Gums from Wisdom Teeth
If you’re experiencing swollen gums when your wisdom teeth come in, you may notice several symptoms. These symptoms can vary in severity depending on the cause of the swelling.
- Swelling: The gums around the back of your mouth, particularly near the wisdom teeth, may appear puffy or swollen.
- Pain or Tenderness: The area around the erupting tooth may feel sore, especially when pressure is applied (such as when chewing).
- Redness: The swollen gums may look redder than usual due to increased blood flow to the affected area.
- Sensitivity: You may experience increased sensitivity in the affected area, making it difficult to eat certain foods or brush your teeth.
- Bad Breath: If an infection is present, you may notice an unpleasant taste or bad breath due to the buildup of bacteria in the affected area.
- Difficulty Opening the Mouth: In some cases, the swelling may make it difficult to fully open your mouth.
Treatment Options for Swollen Gums Due to Wisdom Teeth
While gum swelling from wisdom teeth is often temporary, there are several ways to alleviate the discomfort. If the swelling is mild, there are home care methods you can try to reduce inflammation. However, if the swelling is severe or accompanied by signs of infection, it is important to seek professional dental care.
Salt Water Rinses
One of the simplest and most effective home remedies for gum swelling is rinsing your mouth with warm salt water. This helps to reduce inflammation, soothe the gums, and flush out any bacteria that may be present. A saltwater rinse can be performed several times a day.
Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the swollen area can help reduce swelling and numb the discomfort. The cold constricts blood vessels, reducing the amount of blood flowing to the affected area, which helps reduce inflammation.
Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage the pain and reduce swelling. These medications work by targeting the underlying inflammation and providing relief from discomfort.
Antibiotics
If there is an infection present, antibiotics may be prescribed by your dentist to help clear the infection. It is important to take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if you start feeling better before finishing the medication.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction
In some cases, the swelling may be caused by impacted wisdom teeth or persistent infection. If the swelling is severe or recurrent, your dentist may recommend extracting the wisdom teeth. Removing the impacted teeth can prevent future issues, such as ongoing gum irritation, infection, or damage to neighbouring teeth.
When to Seek Professional Dental Help
While minor gum swelling can often be managed at home, there are situations where you should seek professional dental help. You should visit your dentist if you experience:
- Severe or persistent pain that does not improve with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Significant swelling that affects your ability to open your mouth or swallow.
- Pus or a bad taste in your mouth, which could indicate an infection.
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing due to swelling.
M&M Dental Care: Helping You Through Wisdom Teeth Discomfort
At M&M Dental Care, we understand that the eruption of wisdom teeth can cause discomfort and concern. Our team of experienced professionals is here to guide you through the process, offering treatments to alleviate swelling and prevent complications. Whether you’re dealing with mild gum irritation or impacted wisdom teeth, we can provide the care you need for a comfortable recovery. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your oral health is in top condition.
Read More: Do Gums Swell When Permanent Teeth Come In? A Complete Guide
References
- Australian Dental Association. (n.d.). Wisdom Teeth: What You Need to Know.
- Mayo Clinic. (2021). Pericoronitis: Symptoms and Treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is gum swelling when wisdom teeth come in normal?
Yes, it is normal for gums to swell when wisdom teeth begin to emerge. This is part of the teething process, where the tooth pushes through the gum tissue. However, if the swelling is severe or accompanied by pain or infection, it may require professional dental care.
- How long will my gums be swollen when wisdom teeth come in?
The swelling typically lasts for a few days to a week. If the swelling persists for a longer period, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms like infection, it is best to consult your dentist.
- Can I prevent swelling from wisdom teeth?
While it is difficult to prevent the swelling caused by wisdom teeth eruption, maintaining good oral hygiene can help reduce the risk of infection and irritation. Regular brushing and flossing, along with salt water rinses, can help manage the swelling.
- What should I do if my wisdom teeth are causing pain and swelling?
If the swelling is mild, over-the-counter pain relievers, cold compresses, and saltwater rinses may help. However, if the pain persists or worsens, it is important to visit Emergency dentist near you for a professional evaluation.
- Can impacted wisdom teeth cause infection?
Yes, impacted wisdom teeth can lead to infection. The gum tissue around the impacted tooth can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to an infection known as pericoronitis. This condition can cause severe pain, swelling, and pus. In some cases, antibiotics and possibly tooth extraction may be required.
- When should I see a dentist about swollen gums from wisdom teeth?
If the swelling is severe, accompanied by pus, difficulty swallowing, or persistent pain, it is important to see a dentist. These could be signs of an infection or impacted wisdom teeth that may require intervention.
