Should You Remove a New Wisdom Tooth Causing Oral Discomfort?

Should I have my newly erupted wisdom tooth removed if it is scraping against my oral cavity?

Hello, Doctor: I recently discovered a new wisdom tooth growing on the upper left side.
Previously, I had an X-ray taken by a dentist, which showed that the wisdom tooth was vertical.
However, in the past few days, I noticed that the tooth is rubbing against the inner wall of my mouth on the left side.
I applied some medication for a few days and felt it was getting better, but once I stopped, the pain returned.
Should I see a dentist to have the wisdom tooth extracted? I found online that some people mentioned that a wisdom tooth rubbing against the mouth can cause inflammation and ulcers.
Since the wisdom tooth has just emerged, I'm not sure if it will stop causing issues once it fully grows in.
I would like to know how long the growth period for a wisdom tooth is, whether I should observe it for a few more days, or if it might be because it is growing more outward than usual.
Due to the pandemic, it is inconvenient for me to go out for a consultation, so I wanted to seek professional advice online first before deciding whether to wait a few more days.
Thank you, Doctor.

Sha Sha, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/09

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Wisdom teeth typically fully erupt and position themselves after the age of 20.
If they grow in a tilted manner, it is likely due to insufficient space for eruption or an incorrect growth angle, which can cause them to press against the second molars or irritate the inner gum tissue or tongue.
In such cases, it is advisable to consult a dentist for further evaluation and treatment, and even consider extraction.
Dr.
Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/06/09

More Info

When it comes to the discomfort caused by a newly erupted wisdom tooth, it's essential to consider several factors before deciding on removal. Wisdom teeth, or third molars, typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood, and their growth can lead to various complications, especially if they are impacted or positioned incorrectly.

In your case, it seems that the new wisdom tooth is causing irritation to the inner cheek, which can lead to inflammation and ulceration. This is a common issue when wisdom teeth are positioned at an angle or are erupting in a way that causes them to rub against the soft tissues of the mouth. The discomfort you are experiencing may be a sign that the tooth is not only causing physical irritation but could also lead to further complications, such as infection or chronic pain.

Understanding the Growth of Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth typically take several months to fully emerge. During this time, they can cause discomfort as they push through the gums. If your wisdom tooth is vertical and has just started to erupt, it may take some time for it to settle into its final position. However, if it is causing significant pain or discomfort, it may not be worth waiting to see if the situation improves on its own.

When to Consider Removal
1. Persistent Pain: If the pain continues despite using topical treatments, it may indicate that the tooth is causing ongoing irritation or that there is an underlying issue, such as infection.

2. Infection Risk: If the tooth is positioned in a way that makes it difficult to clean, it can lead to food trapping and bacteria growth, increasing the risk of infection. Signs of infection include swelling, redness, and pus.

3. Impact on Oral Health: If the wisdom tooth is affecting your ability to chew or is causing damage to adjacent teeth, removal may be necessary to prevent further complications.

4. Long-Term Discomfort: If the discomfort persists for more than a few days and is affecting your daily activities, it’s advisable to consult a dentist.

What to Do Next
Given the current situation with the pandemic, if you are unable to visit a dentist immediately, here are some steps you can take:
- Continue Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, especially around the area of the erupting wisdom tooth. This can help reduce the risk of infection.

- Use Salt Water Rinses: Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help soothe irritation and reduce inflammation.

- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: If the pain is significant, consider using over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to manage discomfort.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on the symptoms. If you notice increased swelling, fever, or pus, seek dental care as soon as possible.

Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision to remove a wisdom tooth should be made in consultation with a dental professional. If the discomfort persists or worsens, it is advisable to seek an appointment with your dentist, even if it means waiting a little longer. They can provide a thorough examination and determine the best course of action based on the tooth's position and your overall oral health. Remember, addressing the issue sooner rather than later can prevent more significant problems down the line.

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