Managing Pain from Impacted Wisdom Teeth Without Extraction

excuse me?

Hello, Doctor: I am 22 years old, and my name is Xiaofan.
I have a wisdom tooth growing at the back of my upper jaw, and it keeps biting into my lower gums, which is very painful.
Whenever I eat, I accidentally bite down, and when I move my mouth around, the upper wisdom tooth hits the lower gums where there are no teeth, causing a lot of pain.
So now I have to be very careful.
Doctor, do you have any methods to help me improve this situation? I would prefer not to have the wisdom tooth extracted because I am afraid of the pain.
I hope you can provide me with some answers.
Thank you!

pyu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/07/15

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

The upper third molar (wisdom tooth) can impinge upon the lower gingiva.
In addition to the misalignment of the upper wisdom tooth itself, there may also be a phenomenon known as elongation, where the tooth grows excessively long.
A possible reason for this is the premature loss of the opposing lower molar for various reasons, which allows the upper wisdom tooth to continue growing without an opposing lower tooth to counteract it.
Eventually, this can lead to the upper wisdom tooth biting into the lower gingiva when chewing.
If this biting into the lower gingiva occurs repeatedly, it can often result in pain and swelling of the lower gingiva.
The solution, aside from extracting the upper wisdom tooth, is to consider root canal treatment for the upper wisdom tooth if the elongation is not severe, followed by shortening the crown of the upper wisdom tooth to match the height of the adjacent molars, thereby resolving the issue of irritating the lower gingiva.

Reply Date: 2002/07/15

More Info

Managing pain from impacted wisdom teeth can be quite challenging, especially when extraction is not an option due to fear of pain or other concerns. In your case, it sounds like your upper wisdom tooth is causing discomfort by biting into your lower gums, which can lead to inflammation and pain. Here are some strategies to help manage the pain without resorting to extraction:
1. Oral Hygiene: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial. Brush your teeth gently but thoroughly, especially around the wisdom tooth area. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing can also help remove food particles that may get trapped around the wisdom tooth, reducing the risk of infection and inflammation.

2. Saltwater Rinse: Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater can help soothe inflamed gums and promote healing. Mix about half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. This can be done several times a day, especially after meals.

3. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Non-prescription pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate discomfort. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the packaging and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

4. Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the area of pain can help reduce swelling and numb the area, providing temporary relief. Use a cold pack or wrap ice in a cloth and apply it for 15-20 minutes at a time.

5. Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: To minimize the risk of biting down on your gums, try to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that may exacerbate the pain. Soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or smoothies can be easier to eat without causing discomfort.

6. Dental Check-Up: Since you are experiencing pain, it is essential to consult with a dentist. They can assess the position of your wisdom tooth and determine if there are any underlying issues, such as infection or gum disease. If the tooth is impacted, they may suggest monitoring it closely or provide alternative treatments to alleviate pain.

7. Orthodontic Consultation: If your wisdom tooth is causing significant misalignment or bite issues, an orthodontist may be able to provide solutions such as braces or other orthodontic devices to help correct your bite without removing the tooth.

8. Stress Management: Sometimes, anxiety about dental procedures can exacerbate pain perception. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or even talking to a therapist can help manage your fear of dental work.

9. Regular Follow-Ups: If you choose to manage the pain without extraction, ensure you have regular dental check-ups to monitor the situation. Your dentist can help track any changes and advise you on the best course of action if the pain persists or worsens.

While these strategies may help manage your pain, it is important to remember that wisdom teeth can sometimes lead to complications. If the pain becomes unbearable or if you notice swelling, fever, or difficulty opening your mouth, seek immediate dental care. Ultimately, the best approach will depend on the specific circumstances of your dental health, and a dental professional can provide personalized advice tailored to your situation.

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