What to do when experiencing wisdom tooth pain?
If your lower right wisdom tooth is inflamed, there are several methods to alleviate the pain besides taking painkillers.
You can try rinsing your mouth with warm salt water to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can also help numb the area and reduce swelling.
As for brushing the inflamed area, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene, but be gentle.
Over-brushing or aggressive brushing can irritate the area further.
Instead, focus on cleaning the surrounding teeth and gums carefully.
If the inflammation persists, it is advisable to consult a dentist for a proper evaluation and treatment.
Xiao Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/15
Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry
Hello: Cleaning is helpful in preventing inflammation and pain, as plaque after eating serves as a breeding ground for millions of bacteria.
If the wisdom tooth is being managed with medication but has caused pain more than three times, it indicates that the tooth is misaligned and difficult to care for, so it should be extracted! Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Huang Chih-Cheng, Director of Dentistry, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.
Reply Date: 2016/03/15
More Info
When dealing with wisdom tooth pain, especially if there is inflammation, it is essential to approach the situation with a combination of effective remedies and proper dental care. Wisdom teeth, or third molars, often become problematic due to their position in the mouth, which can lead to impaction, infection, or inflammation. Here are some effective remedies and strategies for managing wisdom tooth pain relief:
1. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Always follow the recommended dosage on the packaging or as directed by your healthcare provider.
2. Salt Water Rinse: Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Mix about half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. This can help cleanse the area and reduce bacteria.
3. Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek where the pain is located can help numb the area and reduce swelling. Use a cloth-wrapped ice pack for 15-20 minutes at a time.
4. Clove Oil: Clove oil has natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. You can apply a small amount of clove oil to a cotton ball and place it on the affected area. Be cautious with the amount, as it can be potent.
5. Hydration and Soft Foods: Staying hydrated and consuming soft foods can help minimize discomfort while eating. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that may aggravate the pain.
6. Maintain Oral Hygiene: While it may seem counterintuitive to brush the inflamed area, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. Gently brushing your teeth and the area around the wisdom tooth can help remove food particles and bacteria, which may reduce inflammation. However, be careful not to irritate the area further.
7. Avoid Irritants: Stay away from tobacco, alcohol, and very hot or spicy foods, as these can exacerbate inflammation and pain.
8. Consult a Dentist: If the pain persists or worsens, it is vital to consult a dentist. They can assess the situation, determine if there is an infection or impaction, and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics or even extraction of the wisdom tooth.
Regarding the advice you mentioned about brushing the inflamed area to help bacteria exit, it is essential to be gentle. While maintaining oral hygiene is crucial, aggressive brushing can irritate the inflamed tissue further. Instead, focus on gentle cleaning and rinsing to keep the area as clean as possible without causing additional discomfort.
In summary, while over-the-counter medications can provide immediate relief, combining them with home remedies like saltwater rinses, cold compresses, and maintaining good oral hygiene can significantly help manage wisdom tooth pain. However, if symptoms persist, seeking professional dental advice is the best course of action to address the underlying issue effectively.
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