Wisdom Tooth Woes? Here’s How to Handle Swollen Gums

Uh-oh! Your mouth is throbbing, your gums are puffier than a marshmallow, and you’re pretty sure that pesky wisdom tooth is the culprit. Sound familiar? If you’re dealing with swollen gums from a wisdom tooth, you’re not alone! These late-blooming molars have a knack for causing discomfort when they decide to make their grand entrance, or worse, when they get stuck halfway.

But don’t worry! Let’s dive into why your gums might be swollen and, most importantly, how to get you feeling better ASAP!

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Cause Swollen Gums?

Wisdom teeth usually start emerging in your late teens or early twenties. Unfortunately, for many people, there’s just not enough room in the jaw for them to come in properly. When that happens, they can get stuck (impacted), only partially erupt, or push against neighboring teeth—all of which can irritate your gums.

Common Causes of Swollen Gums Due to Wisdom Teeth

Impaction

When your wisdom tooth doesn’t have enough room to emerge fully, it can put pressure on your gums, causing pain and swelling. In many cases, impacted wisdom teeth may need to be removed to prevent ongoing discomfort.

Pericoronitis

Pericoronitis occurs when food and bacteria get trapped under the gum flap covering a partially erupted wisdom tooth. If this keeps happening, your dentist may recommend removal to stop recurring infections.

Crowding

As wisdom teeth try to squeeze into tight spaces, they can shift other teeth, leading to inflammation and discomfort. This kind of pressure can affect your bite and alignment, so scheduling a consultation is the next step in determining the best course of action.

Poor Oral Hygiene

It’s tough to clean around a wisdom tooth that’s only halfway out, making it easier for plaque and bacteria to build up and cause swelling.

Fast and Effective Ways to Treat Swollen Gums

Now, let’s talk about solutions! Here’s a few ways that you can ease the discomfort and bring the swelling down:

1. Rinse with Warm Salt Water 

A saltwater rinse is like a superhero for sore gums! It helps reduce inflammation and fights bacteria. Just mix a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water, swish it around for 30 seconds, and repeat a few times a day.

2. Apply a Cold Compress 

Ice packs aren’t just for sports injuries—they work wonders on swollen gums, too! Wrap an ice pack (or a bag of frozen peas) in a cloth and apply it to your cheek for 15-20 minutes to numb the pain and reduce swelling.

3. Take Pain Relievers 

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Just be sure to follow the recommended dosage.

4. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene 

Even if brushing feels a little uncomfortable, keeping your mouth clean is crucial. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss gently around the affected area, and avoid super-hot or spicy foods that can irritate your gums further.

When to See a Dentist

If your swollen gums aren’t improving after a few days, or if you notice severe pain, fever, or difficulty swallowing, it’s time to call your local dentist. These could be signs of a more serious infection that needs professional treatment. In some cases, wisdom teeth may need to be removed to prevent recurring issues.

The team at Peak View Dental in Castle Rock, CO is highly experienced in diagnosing and treating wisdom tooth-related issues. Whether you need relief from swelling or a consultation on whether your wisdom teeth should come out, Peak View Dental is just a phone call away.