With the holidays approaching, time is spent planning, catching up, and eating with family and friends. However, at the most inopportune time, that wisdom tooth you’ve been neglecting to remove starts to act up on a nationally recognized holiday! Don’t panic — here are some tips to help you get through the evening until you can reach your dentist.
OTC Pain Relief
Ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) or Acetaminophen (Tylenol) are great options to help keep your pain at bay until you can see your dentist. Clinically, Ibuprofen has always seemed to benefit patients best. Aspirin is another option. All medication should be taken as directed on the packaging — do not take any medications your physician has previously advised you not to take.
Do not place any of these medications directly against the wisdom tooth that is hurting, as this can cause a chemical burn and make things worse.
Rinses
Sometimes wisdom teeth can trap bacteria under or around the gum tissue, which can be especially painful when the tooth is partially erupted. Rinsing with saltwater, or with a 50/50 mix of water and peroxide, can help temporarily clean out the flap of gum tissue over the wisdom tooth and may help dislodge any trapped food around the third molar.
Topical Pain Medication
Topical medication like Orajel or Ambesol can be placed around the inflamed wisdom tooth to provide temporary pain relief. These can be found at any neighborhood pharmacy.
Cold Compress
Icing the area can help relieve pain and inflammation associated with a painful wisdom tooth. An icing regimen of 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off is recommended.
All of these remedies can be used together for optimal pain relief. However, they are only temporary — once your holiday has passed, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
Wisdom Tooth Pain — Frequently Asked Questions
Should I go to the ER for wisdom tooth pain?
The ER can help with pain and infection but cannot treat the underlying dental problem. Use the home remedies above to manage pain and see a dentist as soon as possible.
How do I know if my wisdom tooth needs to be removed?
Recurring pain, swelling, or difficulty opening your mouth are common signs. Dr. Katyal can evaluate your wisdom teeth and let you know if extraction is recommended.
