The wisdom teeth are also known as the third molars. These teeth often come in much later than the rest of the permanent teeth. Sometimes there isn't enough room in the mouth for the wisdom teeth to come in. This may cause a variety of oral complications, including gum pain.
Causes
The main causes of gum pain near the wisdom teeth include impaction, infections, tooth decay, cysts and pressure pain, states TeethNeedGums.com. An impacted wisdom tooth is one that begins to grow out above the gum but doesn't grow out fully. Gum infections, such as pericoronitis, occur when a flap of skin covers a partially erupted wisdom tooth and becomes infected. Tooth decay means the tooth is beginning to die. Cysts are small pockets of fluid that form near the wisdom tooth. Pressure pain occurs when wisdom teeth begin to push through, or erupt, through the gums.
Symptoms
Wisdom teeth that are coming in or that are having trouble coming in can cause gum pain; however, this isn't the only symptom of trouble with wisdom teeth, according to Simple Steps to Better Dental Health. Swelling in the affected area, halitosis, a foul taste in the mouth, swollen lymph nodes, jaw pain, headache and the inability to open the mouth fully are also signs of a problem with the wisdom teeth.
Diagnosis
Problems with wisdom teeth that cause gum pain are diagnosed with a full dental exam. The dentist will usually clean around the affected tooth or teeth and visually inspect the area. In some cases, x-rays may be taken to check the portion of the tooth that is below the gum line.
Treatments
Tooth extraction is one way that gum pain from wisdom teeth is treated. However, if an infection is present, antibiotics are usually required before the extraction can take place. In some cases, the pain may be treated with pain medications. Gum pain that is caused by tooth decay may be treated with fillings, states Animated-Teeth.com.
Prevention
Sometimes there isn't anything that can be done to prevent gum pain from wisdom teeth. However, proper oral care can help to minimize the risk of infections and decayed teeth. Brushing the teeth three times a day and flossing can help. Rinsing the mouth with salt water or an oral rinse after eating or drinking may also help.
Warning
Problems with the wisdom teeth shouldn't be ignored because of the possibility of complications. MedlinePlus, for example, states that a misaligned bite or an abscess may occur as the result of an impacted tooth. Other complications include jaw fractures and life-threatening infections, reports the University of Iowa Health Care. Any trouble with the wisdom teeth warrants a trip to the dentist.
