Jaw Pain: Is It Wisdom Teeth or Something Else?

Opening the mouth causes pain?

Recently, I experienced swelling in my teeth one day.
It felt like there was pressure in the back area.
The next day, the swelling sensation disappeared, but whenever I open my mouth, I feel soreness.
It feels like the tissue is being pressed against the bone.
The pain is also located in the back teeth area, and from an external observation, it is just below the earlobe.
I am currently 19 years old and I'm concerned that it might be related to my wisdom teeth causing the soreness when I open my mouth.
Will it recover in a few days? Thank you! ^^

Mr. A Cai, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/12/25

Dr. Zhuang Suhui reply Dentistry

Based on your description, it is possible that there is an issue with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which could be caused by emotional factors or other influences.
It is advisable to visit a hospital or clinic for an examination to confirm whether there is indeed a problem with the joint.

Reply Date: 2009/12/25

More Info

Jaw pain, particularly in the area of the wisdom teeth, can be a common concern, especially for individuals in their late teens and early twenties. At 19 years old, you are at an age where wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically begin to emerge. This can lead to various symptoms, including swelling, discomfort, and pain when opening the mouth.
The sensation of pressure or swelling you experienced could be attributed to several factors related to your wisdom teeth. When wisdom teeth begin to erupt, they can cause discomfort as they push against adjacent teeth and the surrounding gum tissue. This pressure can lead to inflammation and pain, particularly if there is not enough space in the jaw for the teeth to emerge properly. This condition is often referred to as "impacted wisdom teeth," where the teeth are unable to fully break through the gum line, leading to pain and potential infection.

In your case, the fact that the swelling subsided but you still experience pain when opening your mouth suggests that there may be some irritation or inflammation in the area. The sensation of being pressed against bone could indicate that the wisdom teeth are indeed trying to come in, but are causing discomfort due to their positioning.
It's also important to consider other potential causes of jaw pain. For instance, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can lead to pain in the jaw area, particularly when opening the mouth or chewing. TMJ disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, including teeth grinding, jaw clenching, or misalignment of the jaw.
Given your symptoms, it would be advisable to monitor the situation closely. If the pain persists or worsens, or if you notice any additional symptoms such as swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing, it would be prudent to consult a dentist or oral surgeon. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including X-rays, to determine the exact cause of your discomfort and recommend appropriate treatment.
In many cases, if wisdom teeth are impacted or causing significant pain, extraction may be recommended. However, if the teeth are not causing any issues and are positioned correctly, they may not need to be removed.
In the meantime, you can manage discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers and by applying a warm compress to the affected area. Maintaining good oral hygiene is also crucial to prevent any potential infections, especially if the gums around the wisdom teeth are inflamed.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to the emergence of wisdom teeth, it is essential to keep an eye on the situation and seek professional advice if necessary. Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure that your oral health remains in good standing.

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