A dental professional will examine the wisdom teeth and may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as X-rays, to assess the position and condition of the teeth.

Facts about wisdom tooth pain:

• Gradual onset: Wisdom tooth pain often starts as a mild discomfort or occasional twinges and gradually progresses to more persistent or severe pain. The pain may come and go initially, but it can become constant as the wisdom teeth continue to grow or cause issues.
• Timing of pain: Wisdom tooth pain commonly occurs during the late teens or early twenties when the wisdom teeth typically begin to erupt. However, it’s important to note that not everyone experiences pain or discomfort with their wisdom teeth.
• Different types of pain: Wisdom tooth pain can vary in intensity and character. It may range from a dull, throbbing ache to sharp, shooting pain. The pain can be localized to the area around the wisdom teeth or radiate to nearby regions like the jaw, ear, or head.
• Swelling and inflammation: Wisdom tooth pain is often accompanied by swelling and inflammation in the surrounding gum tissue. The gums may appear red, tender, and puffy near the affected wisdom teeth.
• Difficulty in oral hygiene: Wisdom teeth, especially impacted ones, can be challenging to clean properly. The positioning of the teeth at the back of the mouth makes them difficult to reach with a toothbrush and floss. Poor oral hygiene around the wisdom teeth can contribute to pain, infection, and other dental problems.
• Risk of infection: Impacted wisdom teeth can create pockets in the gums where food particles and bacteria can accumulate, leading to infection. The symptoms of an infected wisdom tooth may include increased pain, swelling, bad breath, and a foul taste in the mouth.

Wisdom teeth are not essential for proper dental function or bite alignment. In fact, they are often associated with problems due to their late eruption and limited space in the jaw. Removing problematic wisdom teeth can help preserve the overall health and alignment of your remaining teeth.