The final set of molars to erupt are wisdom teeth, which typically erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. Even though they may not be harmful, they frequently cause discomfort, edema, or even infections. Wisdom teeth can push against other teeth or remain trapped under the gums (impacted) because they don’t always have enough space to grow.
The good news is that you can find relief from your discomfort in a number of ways. These techniques, which range from simple home cures to over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, can reduce symptoms until you can visit a dentist. Let’s examine 15 options that are very beneficial in more detail.
1. Saltwater Rinse
One of the earliest and best treatments for oral pain is a saltwater rinse. Salt encourages the healing of irritated tissues and lessens oral bacteria. It is especially beneficial if you have partially erupted wisdom teeth that are inflaming your gums.
To try it, combine 8 ounces of warm water with 1 teaspoon of salt. After 30 seconds of swishing, spit it out. Do this two or three times every day.
2. Cold and Heat Therapy
Heat can relieve tension in tense jaw muscles, while cold packs reduce swelling and momentarily dull sharp pain. You can choose the approach that feels the most comfortable for you because each one addresses pain in a different way.
Try it by applying a cold compress for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Apply a warm washcloth to the jaw for ten to fifteen minutes to provide heat.
3. Peppermint
Menthol, which has a cooling effect and can momentarily numb sore spots, is found in peppermint. Its antimicrobial properties also aid in the reduction of oral bacteria. Try it by brewing peppermint tea, allowing it to cool, and then swishing it around your mouth. Or apply the tea bag directly to irritated gums for a short while.
4. Clove Oil
Because clove oil contains eugenol, a natural pain reliever and antibacterial agent, it has long been used to treat toothaches. It might lessen the pain caused by swollen gums around wisdom teeth. Apply a tiny bit of clove oil with a cotton ball close to the sore tooth after diluting it with a carrier oil (such as olive oil). It can irritate delicate tissues, so don’t use too much.
5. Aloe Vera
Aloe is commonly used for its calming effects on the skin, but it can also be beneficial for the mouth. It lessens swelling and might encourage the healing of inflamed gums. Look for aloe vera-containing dental gels. Put a tiny bit on the gum line close to the wisdom tooth.
6. Garlic
Allicin, a substance with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, is found in garlic. It can lessen discomfort and combat infection, but it won’t fix the issue. To try it, crush a garlic clove to extract its juices, then dab the sore spot with it for a short while. Garlic supplements are an additional option if the taste is too strong, but consult your doctor before taking them.
7. Ginger
According to research, ginger may be just as effective as ibuprofen in certain dental situations because of its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. To try it, make some ginger tea, let it cool a little, and then rinse your mouth with it. For mild relief, you can also chew on slices of fresh ginger.
8. Turmeric
Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, reduces discomfort and soothes edema. Additionally, it possesses antimicrobial qualities that could help prevent infection. Use water and turmeric powder to make a paste, which you can then gently apply to sore gums. For additional advantages, you can also drink turmeric tea.
9. Oregano Oil
Compounds that combat inflammation and bacteria are abundant in oregano oil. It might aid in preventing oral infections that exacerbate pain from wisdom teeth. Use a cotton swab to apply 1-2 drops of oregano essential oil mixed with a carrier oil. Essential oils should never be swallowed or used undiluted.
10. Capsaicin
Capsaicin, the ingredient that gives chili peppers their heat, functions by obstructing the brain’s ability to perceive pain. Oral rinses occasionally contain it. Look for capsaicin-containing gels or rinses. At first, there may be a slight burning sensation, but this usually goes away with continued use.
11. Ibuprofen
Since it lessens both pain and inflammation, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) is frequently the first medication prescribed for wisdom tooth pain. Remember to only take the prescribed amount, and if you are taking any other medications, such as blood thinners or blood pressure medications, consult your doctor.
12. Aspirin
Like ibuprofen, aspirin thins the blood, which is beneficial for those with certain heart conditions. However, because of the possibility of Reye’s syndrome, it should never be administered to children.
13. Acetaminophen
Although it doesn’t lessen swelling, acetaminophen (Tylenol) works well for pain relief. For those who are unable to take NSAIDs like aspirin or ibuprofen, it’s a good substitute.
14. Benzocaine
Benzocaine gels, such as Orajel, can offer temporary relief by numbing the gums. However, because of the potential side effects, they are not advised for children and should be used carefully by adults.
15. Acupuncture
Thin needles are used in this age-old Chinese technique to target pain pathways. Although results vary and further research is required, some studies indicate that it may help lessen dental pain.
Why Wisdom Teeth Cause Pain?
There are various reasons why wisdom teeth can cause discomfort:
- Food becoming stuck and causing cavities
- Gum infection-causing bacteria
- Crowding results from pressure on neighboring teeth.
- Impacted teeth beneath the bone or gums
Many people eventually require wisdom teeth extractions because these issues rarely resolve on their own.
When to Call a Dentist
Although these treatments offer some respite, they are not long-term fixes. Speak with a dentist if you observe:
- Excruciating or getting worse pain
- Swelling in the jaw or gums
- Having trouble opening your mouth
- Infection symptoms like pus or fever
If necessary, dentists can recommend extraction or prescribe stronger drugs or antibiotics.
Pain from a wisdom tooth can vary from a dull ache to a throbbing discomfort that makes it difficult to eat or sleep. While over-the-counter drugs like acetaminophen or ibuprofen offer dependable relief, home remedies like cold compresses, clove oil, and saltwater rinses may also be helpful. However, these are only short-term solutions; seeing your dentist to determine whether removal is required is the best long-term option.
