Wisdom teeth, also known as your third molars, are the last set of teeth to appear. They usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. For many patients, the eruption process can cause discomfort and pain in the jaw. However, there are patients who don’t experience any pain or discomfort.
Patients who develop persistent jaw pain might face difficulty performing daily tasks, like chewing, talking, or even opening their mouths fully. In this blog, we learn how wisdom teeth can cause jaw pain and when you need to seek treatment. So, let’s begin!
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars that typically appear in the back of your mouth. While some people get all four of their wisdom teeth, others might only have fewer, or in some cases, none at all.
Many people don’t have enough space in their jaw to accommodate their third molars. Limited space may affect how wisdom teeth erupt, but they are not a proven cause of overall dental crowding.
Can Wisdom Teeth Cause Jaw Pain?
Yes, wisdom teeth can cause jaw pain. Jaw pain may occur in some patients when third molars erupt. When wisdom teeth are unable to erupt correctly, they can get trapped beneath the gums (impaction), which can cause pain, inflammation, or infection. Partially erupted teeth often cause gum infection (pericoronitis), a common cause of jaw pain.
When the third molars don’t have enough space, they may put pressure on nearby teeth or irritate the surrounding gum tissue and jawbone. Also, partially erupted teeth can irritate the surrounding gums and jawbone, which leads to inflammation. In some cases, the pressure becomes severe, which leads to stiffness or pain when opening or closing the mouth.
Reasons Wisdom Teeth Lead to Jaw Discomfort
Jaw pain due to wisdom teeth may be mild and occasional for some patients. However, in some cases, it can be persistent and severe. Understanding the causes can help you receive timely treatment.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth:
When a wisdom tooth is unable to emerge properly and starts to grow at an angle, it is called impaction. The impacted teeth can start pressing against the neighboring teeth or jawbone, which leads to pain, swelling, and discomfort.
Infection:
Partially erupted impacted teeth can create pockets where food and bacteria become trapped, which leads to infection. Having an infection might result in bad breath and difficulty opening the mouth.
Crowding and Pressure:
When wisdom teeth appear in a limited space, they push against the surrounding teeth, which causes crowding. Dental crowding can put pressure and soreness along the jawline. Also, this can affect the alignment of your teeth.
When to See a Dentist?
You should see a dentist if you experience or have:
- Severe or persistent jaw pain
- Tenderness when biting or chewing
- Swelling around the face
- Pain radiating to the ear, head, or neck
- X-ray findings of cysts near impacted wisdom teeth
Final Thoughts
Jaw pain may be related to wisdom teeth, but other causes should also be considered. While mild discomfort is temporary, persistent or severe pain can be concerning, as it can lead to serious dental complications.
For teeth and jaw pain treatment, visit Dentist in Piscataway at iCare4Smiles. Our skilled team provides timely and effective care to relieve pain and prevent future complications. Call us today at (732) 800-9524 to schedule your appointment!