Did you know that more than 85% of adults have some or even all their wisdom teeth removed because of pain or other issues? These molars frequently lack the space they need to erupt, causing swelling, jaw pain, and even infection.
Quick, effective wisdom teeth pain relief is essential for staying comfortable and preserving your oral health. The right remedies can make all the difference when your teeth are coming in or getting taken out.
Here’s what you need to know to ease your pain and help you feel better fast.
What Causes Wisdom Teeth Pain?
Wisdom teeth generally appear from ages 17 to 25. But the mouth doesn’t have enough space for most people. This can cause pain, swelling, and other issues. The most common causes of wisdom tooth pain include
- Impaction—When a wisdom tooth lacks space to grow, it gets stuck beneath the gums or pushes against other teeth. This pressure may cause pain and swelling.
- Gum Infection—Food and bacteria can become caught under a partially erupted wisdom tooth, resulting in infection. Painful, swollen, red gums are also telltale signs.
- Tooth Decay—Wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth, which makes them difficult to clean. This also makes them more susceptible to developing cavities, leading to pain and sensitivity.
- Cysts or Tumors—An impacted wisdom tooth can also form a fluid-filled sac, or cyst, around it, though this is a rare condition. If left untreated, such cysts can destroy jawbone and adjacent teeth.
- Pressure on Nearby Teeth—A developing wisdom tooth can exert pressure on adjacent teeth, leading to discomfort and misalignment.
What Are the Symptoms of Wisdom Tooth Pain?
Everyone experiences wisdom tooth pain differently. Some feel only minor discomfort; others feel severe pain. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Pain at the Back of the Mouth – You may have dull or sharp pain right near the molar, especially when you eat or touch the area. At times, this pain can reach the roof of the mouth, hurting while chewing.
- Gums That Are Swollen or Bleeding—Inflamed, bleeding gums surrounding the wisdom tooth may indicate infection or irritation.
- Jaw Stiffness and Soreness—If a wisdom tooth is applying pressure, then you may feel pain in the jaw or have difficulties opening your mouth.
- Ear or Head Pain—Jaw pain can radiate to the ear, leading to earaches or headaches.
- Bad Breath / Bad Taste—Food and bacteria lodged around the wisdom tooth may cause bad breath or an unusual taste in your mouth.
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see a dentist. They can see if you need treatment for your wisdom teeth to avoid more complications.
5 Best Quick Wisdom Teeth Pain Relief at Home
If your wisdom teeth are causing you pain, it doesn’t always mean you need to run to a dentist. There are simple home remedies that can treat toothache and swelling.
1. Saltwater Rinse
One of the best things you can do to keep your mouth clean and reduce pain is to do saline rinses of salt and warm water. Salt also has natural antibacterial properties, which can help prevent infections.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water.
- Swish for 30 seconds and then spit it out.
- Repeat 3-4 times daily.
It acts as an antibacterial that reduces swelling and soothes irritated gums.
2. Ice Pack Therapy
Cold therapy is a quick way to relax pain and thin swelling. Cold numbs the area, decreasing some of the painful signals sent to the brain.
- Wrap an ice pack in a cloth.
- Hold it on the outside of your cheek for 15 minutes.
- • If you want to remove it for 15 minutes, do so repeatedly.
Applying an ice pack for the first 24-48 hours can be very beneficial in minimizing pain.
3. Cloves and Clove Oil
Eugenol is a natural numbing agent found in clove oil. This compound aids in pain reduction and combats bacteria.
- Put a small amount of clove oil on the cotton ball.
- Apply directly to the sore area.
- Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse with water.
If there is no clove oil available, put a whole clove next to the sore tooth and bite down gently, too.
4. Onions for Pain Relief
Despite their troublesome nature, onions have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making them a surprising yet effective treatment.
- Take a small piece of raw onion.
- Put on or around the sore tooth.
- Chew slowly, for a minute or so, to release its juices.
Onions contain compounds that naturally reduce swelling and fight infections.
5. Tea Bags Remedy
Tea, particularly black tea, has tannins, which help reduce swelling and pain.
- Brew a tea bag in hot water, then cool it off.
- Apply the moist tea bag to the affected area.
- Stay for 15-20 minutes holding it there.
Tannins act as natural astringents, constricting inflamed tissues and reducing pain.
These wisdom teeth pain relief home remedies can help ease discomfort until you can get to a dentist.
What Over-the-Counter and Medical Treatments Are Available for Wisdom Teeth Pain
If at-home remedies aren’t working, it might be time to turn to over-the-counter medicines or professional treatments.
1. Numbing Gels and Sprays
Numbing gels such as Orajel have benzocaine, a local anesthetic that numbs pain for a short time.
- Put a thin coat of gel on the affected area with a clean finger or cotton swab.
- Apply as directed (usually up to four times a day).
Benzocaine interrupts nerve signals where you apply it, giving fast but temporary relief.
2. Pain Relievers
Some general over-the-counter pain relievers can help with the pain caused by wisdom teeth. Here are the top options:
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)—decreases inflammation and pain.
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)—pain relief without swelling reduction.
Some people switch between the two medications (based on dosage and timing) for optimal results.
3. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an alternative pain-relief method. Some studies suggest it can decrease dental pain by stimulating the nervous system.
- A licensed acupuncturist places thin needles into pressure points.
- This causes the release of endorphins to block pain.
Acupuncture is not a first-choice treatment but has been found to help some people when it comes to wisdom teeth pain relief.
When to See a Dentist
If your pain is severe or lasts longer than a few days, it’s time to see a dentist. Signs you need professional care include:
- Severe swelling that doesn’t improve.
- Pain that spreads to the ear, jaw, or throat.
- Fever or chills, which may signal an infection.
- Difficulty opening your mouth or swallowing.
A dentist can suggest pain relief methods for wisdom teeth removal, such as a prescription medication or removal if it is required.
If home and over-the-counter treatments aren’t providing relief, don’t wait too long — getting timely dental care can help you avoid complications.
How Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Performed?
If home remedies and pain relievers no longer help with a wisdom tooth, removal may be the only solution. This is especially true for impacted wisdom teeth that cause pain, swelling, or infection.
The extraction method depends on whether the tooth has fully emerged or is impacted.
There are two types of wisdom tooth extractions:
Simple Extraction
If the wisdom tooth is fully visible above the gum line, a dentist can perform a simple extraction. They will:
- Numb the area with local anesthesia.
- Use dental instruments to loosen and remove the tooth. This process is quick, usually taking less than 30 minutes with minimal discomfort.
Surgical Extraction
If the wisdom tooth is impacted (trapped under the gums or growing at an angle), a surgical extraction is required. This involves:
- Making a small incision in the gum.
- Removing any bone blocking the tooth.
- Sometimes, cutting the tooth into smaller pieces for easier removal. A surgical extraction is more complex and takes longer to heal.
How Long Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Take
How long it takes depends on the complexity of the case:
- Simple extractions will take 20–30 minutes per tooth.
- Surgical extractions can take anywhere from 45 to 60 minutes or more for impacted teeth.
Total time of the appointment may include preparation time, anesthesia, and post-extraction care instructions.
How to Avoid Complications from Having Wisdom Teeth Removed
The most common concern after extraction is dry socket or alveolar Osteitis. A dry socket is a painful condition where the blood clot dissolves too soon, exposing the bone. This happens in almost 0.5% to 5.6% of cases and is more prevalent in smokers. To avoid this:
- Avoid Straws & Smoking—Suction can dislodge the clot, increasing the risk of dry socket.
- Maintain Oral Hygiene—After 24 hours, gently rinse with salt water to keep the area clean.
- Eat Soft Foods—Stick to gentle, non-irritating foods and avoid alcohol.
- Limit Physical Activity—Avoid strenuous exercise for a few days to prevent blood pressure spikes that could affect clot formation.
FAQs About Wisdom Teeth Pain Relief
How long does wisdom teeth pain last?
Wisdom teeth pain typically can last 7–10 days if the teeth are coming in fine. But if complications such as impaction, infection, or crowding arise, the discomfort may continue for weeks, months, or even years as the teeth fully emerge or are extracted.
What are the symptoms of wisdom tooth pain?
Common symptoms include:
- Gums that are swollen, tender, or bleeding
- Jaw pain or stiffness
- Bad breath
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- A bad taste from infection
These signs suggest your wisdom teeth may be causing problems.
Is a painful wisdom tooth an emergency?
Not always. Mild discomfort can often be managed at home. However, if you experience severe pain, fever, or swelling that affects swallowing or breathing, seek dental care promptly.
How long does wisdom tooth removal take to recover?
Recovery after wisdom tooth removal depends on various factors such as the complexity of the procedure, individual healing speed, and post-operative care. While most people feel better within two weeks, full recovery can take months.
Can ibuprofen help with wisdom teeth pain?
Yes, ibuprofen is effective for reducing pain and inflammation associated with wisdom teeth. Always follow the recommended dosage and consult your dentist if pain persists.
How does an ice pack help with wisdom teeth pain?
Applying an ice pack to your cheek numbs the area and reduces swelling. Use it for 15-20 minutes at a time, with breaks in between, to alleviate discomfort.
Last Words
Wisdom tooth pain is a common experience that can often be managed with home remedies and over-the-counter treatments. However, persistent or severe pain warrants professional dental attention. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are key to preventing complications.
If you’re experiencing discomfort, don’t hesitate to consult with your dentist to determine the best course of action.
