Swollen Gums and Pain in Lower Right Tooth: Possible Wisdom Tooth Issues?

Swelling and pain in the lower right tooth and gums?

Hello Doctor: In the past two weeks, my gums at the back of my lower right jaw have swollen and developed a small hole.
However, the hole is not in the center but next to the molar, and it hurts a lot when I bite into food.
I'm wondering if this is related to my wisdom teeth? But isn't it too early for wisdom teeth to come in?

OwO, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/05/06

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

The above situation could be due to gingivitis or the emergence of wisdom teeth.
It is recommended to consult a dentist for further examination.

Reply Date: 2018/05/06

More Info

Swollen gums and pain in the lower right tooth can indeed be indicative of several dental issues, including problems related to wisdom teeth. Given your description of the symptoms—swelling, the presence of a small hole in the gums, and pain when chewing—it is essential to consider a few possibilities.

Firstly, the swelling and pain you are experiencing could be a sign of pericoronitis, which is an inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding a partially erupted wisdom tooth. This condition often occurs when there is not enough space in the mouth for the wisdom tooth to emerge properly, leading to food particles and bacteria getting trapped around the tooth. The inflammation can cause significant discomfort and may lead to infection if not treated.
Secondly, the small hole you mentioned could be a sign of an abscess or a periodontal pocket, which can occur due to gum disease or an infection. If the gum tissue is compromised, it can create a space where bacteria thrive, leading to further inflammation and pain.
It's also important to note that while wisdom teeth typically emerge in late adolescence to early adulthood, they can sometimes begin to erupt earlier, especially if there is a lack of space in the jaw. If your wisdom tooth is indeed trying to come in, it could be causing the surrounding gum tissue to become inflamed and painful.

Given these possibilities, it is crucial to seek dental care. A dentist can perform a thorough examination, possibly including X-rays, to determine the exact cause of your symptoms. They may recommend treatments such as:
1. Professional Cleaning: If there is food debris or plaque around the wisdom tooth, a professional cleaning can help alleviate some of the inflammation.

2. Antibiotics: If an infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed to help control the infection and reduce swelling.

3. Surgical Intervention: If the wisdom tooth is impacted or causing significant issues, the dentist may recommend extraction. This is particularly common if the tooth is not likely to erupt properly or if it poses a risk of further complications.

4. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort while you await treatment.

In summary, the symptoms you are experiencing—swollen gums, pain, and the presence of a small hole—could be related to your wisdom tooth or other dental issues. It is essential to consult a dentist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe complications, including chronic pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth. Therefore, prompt dental evaluation is highly recommended to address your concerns effectively.

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