There is nothing that compares to dental pain, especially the agony of a wisdom tooth that is just starting to erupt. Whether you’re a teenager or someone in their 20s, you know how excruciating it can be to deal with a half-grown molar.
Not to mention, getting stuck with swollen gums near a wisdom tooth can really throw you off. Is it an infection causing the swelling, or is it the wisdom tooth pressing against it?
Either way, the first thought you probably had was to get it fixed immediately. Luckily, we have mentioned all the different ways to treat swollen gums right here in this blog!
Why Are My Gums Near The Wisdom Tooth Swollen?
Technically, gums that swell up around the wisdom teeth result from a condition known as pericoronitis. It is an inflammation of the gum tissues which surround the wisdom tooth. This condition usually occurs when the molar is impacted. That is to say, the tooth is growing at a weird angle, with half of its body pushing out of the gum and the other half cutting into your cheek.
Periocoronitis is versatile. Depending on the symptoms, it can either be a serious or mild infection. Moreover, given the position of wisdom teeth, it is very easy for the gums to get infected.
How To Treat Swollen Gums Near Wisdom Tooth
To treat the swollen gums near a wisdom tooth, you can try following the tips mentioned below. However, it is important to note that before trying any treatment at home, it is important to visit your dentist. Only a professional dental evaluation can help determine the problem with your oral health.
Maintain A Good Oral Hygiene Routine
Brushing your teeth and flossing gums every day is the only way to ensure your oral health doesn’t falter. It also prevents a lot of dental complications from taking place.
Rinse With An Anti-bacterial Mouthwash
Rinsing your mouth two times a day with mouthwash is extremely helpful. It keeps your gums healthy and kills the bacteria lingering in your mouth. Although, make sure the mouthwash is anti-bacterial and alcohol-free.
Make A Saltwater Solution
Mix a tablespoon of salt in a cup of lukewarm water to create a saltwater rinse. This helps kill all the harmful bacteria in your mouth and reduces gum inflammation.
Apply A Cold Compress Over The Affected Area
Rather than applying a cold compress directly on the swollen gums, take the compress and press it on the outside area to soothe the pain and eliminate swelling.
Schedule A Professional Dental Cleaning
Professional dental cleaning removes all the harmful bacteria and germs in your mouth. It also boosts oral health as there is no plaque or tartar formation to worry about.
Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
If the swelling on your gums worsens or a throbbing pain emanates from within, do not be afraid to take OTC pain-relieving medications.
Avoid Sugary Foods and Drinks
Constantly munching on and sipping foods that contain sugar leads to plaque production. Plus, with an impacted wisdom tooth, the bacteria can sneak into the gums and cause swelling.
Do Not Eat Anything Too Hard
Any food that is hard or crunchy should also be avoided, as biting into it can lead to more pain rather than relieving it.
Get Your Wisdom Tooth Extracted
Sometimes the swollen gums are merely an indication of an impacted wisdom tooth. Thus, to get rid of the swelling, you would have to undergo a wisdom tooth extraction surgery.
Closing Word
Finding swollen gums near a wisdom tooth isn’t an ideal discovery. However, with proper precautions and safety guidelines, you can effectively reduce the swelling. Although if the swelling persists and doesn’t go away in a week, it might be time to let your dentist know.
For more information, feel free to contact Smile Designs Dentistry at (209) 780-4777. You can also drop by and visit our clinic at 295 Spreckels Ave, Manteca, CA 95336, United States, located right next to Mihana Sushi.