Persistent Pain in Tooth Before Wisdom Tooth: Is It Normal?

Pain in the tooth adjacent to the wisdom tooth?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask you a question! Initially, I went to the clinic because of pain in my lower tooth (the one in front of my wisdom tooth).
After an X-ray, they said I needed to have my wisdom tooth extracted and referred me to a hospital for the procedure.
I went to the hospital and had the extraction done, but it has been over two weeks since the extraction, and the tooth in front of the wisdom tooth is still very painful.
Is this normal?

A Bao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/20

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

A few days after having wisdom teeth removed, the tooth in front may feel sore due to inflammation at the extraction site.
It is recommended to keep the extraction site clean and to have regular follow-up appointments for examination.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/02/20

More Info

Persistent pain in a tooth after the extraction of a wisdom tooth can be concerning, and it's understandable to seek clarity on whether this is a normal occurrence. Based on the information provided and general dental knowledge, I can offer some insights.

First, it's important to recognize that pain following dental procedures, including wisdom tooth extraction, can vary significantly from person to person. After the extraction of a wisdom tooth, it is common to experience some level of discomfort or pain in the surrounding areas. This is due to the trauma inflicted on the tissues during the extraction process, which can lead to inflammation and sensitivity in adjacent teeth.

However, if you are experiencing persistent pain in the tooth adjacent to the extracted wisdom tooth for over 20 days, it may not be considered normal. There are several potential reasons for this ongoing discomfort:
1. Infection: One of the most common causes of prolonged pain after tooth extraction is an infection. If bacteria enter the extraction site, it can lead to a condition known as dry socket or even a localized infection, which can cause significant pain. Symptoms of infection may include swelling, redness, and possibly a foul taste or odor in the mouth.

2. Nerve Irritation: The extraction of a wisdom tooth, especially if it was impacted, can sometimes irritate or damage nearby nerves. This can lead to ongoing pain or sensitivity in adjacent teeth.

3. Adjacent Tooth Issues: The tooth that is still painful may have had pre-existing issues that were exacerbated by the extraction. For example, if there was decay, gum disease, or other dental problems, these could lead to persistent pain.

4. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain can be referred from one area to another. The extraction site may be healing, but the pain could be radiating from another dental issue that needs to be addressed.

5. Post-Operative Complications: Complications such as bone fragments left in the extraction site or issues with the healing process can also lead to prolonged discomfort.

Given your situation, it is crucial to follow up with a dental professional for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend taking X-rays to assess the healing of the extraction site and the condition of the adjacent tooth. This will help determine if there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed, such as an infection or another dental problem.

In the meantime, managing pain with over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be helpful, but it is essential to consult with a dentist before continuing any medication, especially if the pain persists. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding irritants such as very hot or cold foods can help minimize discomfort.

In conclusion, while some pain after wisdom tooth extraction is expected, persistent pain in the adjacent tooth for over 20 days warrants further investigation. It is advisable to seek professional dental care to ensure that any underlying issues are identified and treated appropriately. Your oral health is paramount, and addressing these concerns promptly can help prevent further complications.

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