Severe pain, swelling, or facial trauma?
Call us now — we offer same-day appointments for urgent dental problems.
Symptom guide
Wisdom tooth pain — what to do
Most wisdom teeth come in (or partly come in) between ages 17 and 25. Some erupt cleanly; many do not. Here is how to tell which kind of pain you are dealing with and when to come in.
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Possible causes
Common reasons behind wisdom tooth pain. Only an exam can confirm the cause for you.
- ✓A wisdom tooth pushing against the tooth in front of it
- ✓A wisdom tooth coming in at an angle (impaction) and pressing on neighboring roots
- ✓Gum tissue covering a partly-erupted wisdom tooth, trapping food and bacteria (pericoronitis)
- ✓A cavity in a hard-to-reach wisdom tooth
- ✓A cyst forming around an unerupted wisdom tooth (less common but real)
When to come in — or call right away
Any of the following deserves prompt evaluation. Call us today.
- ⚠Facial or jaw swelling, especially under the jawline
- ⚠Difficulty opening your mouth, swallowing, or breathing
- ⚠Fever along with the pain
- ⚠Bad taste, pus, or foul odor from the back of the mouth
- ⚠Pain that radiates to the ear or down the jaw and lasts more than a day or two
What you can try right now
These are general suggestions, not medical advice. Follow the directions on any product you use, and ask your dentist or doctor if you are unsure.
- •Rinse gently with warm salt water several times a day, especially after meals.
- •Take an over-the-counter pain reliever following the directions on the package.
- •Keep the area as clean as possible — a soft toothbrush, gentle strokes, and a clean tongue help.
- •Eat softer foods on the other side until you can be seen.
- •Do not try to cut or lance the gum yourself.
How KinDentists treats wisdom tooth pain
Treatment depends on the underlying cause — here are the services that most often resolve this for our patients.
Urgent Care
Emergency Dental Care
Urgent dental care for tooth pain, broken teeth, and dental emergencies. Same-day appointments available.
Surgical Care
Oral Surgery & Extractions
Tooth extractions and oral surgery for damaged, problematic, or impacted teeth with a focus on comfort and clear communication.
Preventive Care
Dental Exams & Professional Cleanings
Routine dental exams and professional cleanings to maintain oral health, catch issues early, and build a clear treatment plan.
Common questions
Wisdom Tooth Pain FAQ
Other common symptoms
Not sure what to do next?
Call us — we will help you decide whether you need to be seen today or whether it can wait for a routine visit. Hablamos español. Nói tiếng Việt.