Wisdom teeth, or third molars, usually come in during late adolescence or early adulthood. Not everyone has issues with them, but many people do experience problems, such as swollen gums around a wisdom tooth. This can be painful and inconvenient, as well as an indicator of the possibility of dental issues. After knowing the cause, how to perform quick, at-home remedies, when you should seek professional help, and how to stop further swelling are important actions you can take to maintain good oral health. 

Smileoracles is a State-of-the-art venture aimed at providing dental care to its patients by ensuring attention to every detail needed in the field of Medicine and Dentistry. It is our mission to provide the very best in dental care while keeping you relaxed and comfortable. We have incorporated the latest technology, best diagnostic protocols, and advanced treatment modalities in our practice. Our patients benefit from the technical expertise and artistry of our dental specialists, whether they need simple or complex dental care, customized treatment plan.

We believe ours is the optimal way to treat our patients, and their testimonials are evidence of the quality of care at Smileoracles. We love what we do, and it shows.

Our dental specialists stay up to date on the latest advancements in dentistry in order to provide the most current treatment options for our patients. As dentists, we recognize that our patients are unique individuals who have placed a great deal of trust in our team. That is just one reason why we value every patient relationship.

Let’s delve deep to know more about the swollen gums near the wisdom tooth. 

Possible Causes of Swollen Gums around Wisdom Teeth

Swollen gums around a wisdom tooth are usually a result of pericoronitis. Pericoronitis occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the partially emerged wisdom tooth swells or becomes inflamed. Pericoronitis usually occurs due to food and bacteria underneath the gum flap, leading to infection. It can also happen from:-

• Bone-impacted wisdom teeth: if the wisdom teeth do not have enough space to emerge and become trapped by the gum or jawbone, leading to swelling or pressure.
• Poor oral hygiene: If plaque remains on the teeth, it inflames the gums further, leading to gingivitis or periodontitis.
• Tooth Decay: Wisdom teeth are more difficult to keep clean because of their position, leading to an increased chance of cavities and infections.
• Cysts: Sometimes, cysts (fluid-filled sacs) can develop around an impacted wisdom tooth, which can contribute to gum swelling.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Failing to brush and floss regularly allows plaque and bacteria to accumulate, especially around the challenging-to-reach wisdom teeth. 

The first step toward dealing with the discomfort and preventing additional complications is awareness of the problems.

Also Read – Dental Cleaning vs. Deep Cleaning: What’s the Real Difference?

Home Remedies for Relief

If you are having mild swelling and discomfort near your wisdom tooth, several home remedies may help soothe the area and reduce inflammation:-

1. Warm Salt Water Rinse: Mix 1 tsp. of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth 2-3 times a day. This will help clean the area and reduce bacteria.
2. Cold Compress: Place an ice pack wrapped in a cloth over the outside of your cheek for about 15-20 minutes to help reduce swelling and numb the pain.
3. Clove Oil: Clove oil is famously recognized for its antibacterial and pain-relieving properties. It may be applied directly to the swollen gums with a cotton swab.
4. Turmeric Paste: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties. Combine turmeric powder with water to create a paste and apply it to the inflamed area.
5. Aloe Vera Gel: Apply a small amount of the aloe vera gel to reduce irritation and promote healing of inflamed gums.
6. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse: Rinse with a solution of hydrogen peroxide diluted with water to decrease inflammation and kill bacteria.

Although these measures may provide temporary relief, they are not replacements for routine dental visits if any of the above symptoms persist.

Prevention Tips for Future Swelling

Preventing gum swelling near wisdom teeth is largely a function of good oral hygiene and being proactive with dental care. Be sure to pay attention to these prevention tips:-

• Brush and Floss Regularly: Use a toothbrush with soft bristles, and floss your teeth daily, especially in the area of the wisdom teeth.
• Use Antibacterial Mouthwash: Rinsing your mouth with an antimicrobial mouthwash may help to reduce bacteria and plaque accumulation.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking water will wash away food particles and bacteria.
• Avoid Foods that are Hard or Sticky: Foods that are hard or sticky are likely to become lodged around the wisdom teeth and may especially irritate gums.
• Regular Dental Checkups: Regular visits to your dentist can help monitor the eruption of wisdom teeth and catch problems early.
• Professional Cleaning: Regular dental cleanings eliminate plaque and tartar that you may not remove entirely by brushing.
• Evaluating Wisdom Teeth: If your wisdom teeth are impacted or lead to recurrent issues, your dentist may recommend extraction.

By employing these preventive strategies, you can significantly decrease the chance of gum swelling and other complications.

Also Read – The Side Effects of Wisdom Tooth Extraction

When to Consider Professional Help

While home remedies can be useful for mild symptoms, certain signs suggest seeking dental help:-

• Persistent Pain: If the pain does not go away in the next few days or is getting worse.
• Fever or Swollen Lymph Nodes: These can be signs that an infection is spreading.
• Difficulty Opening Mouth/Swallowing: A sign of a more severe infection or abscess.
• Pus/Discharge: A sign of an infection that should be treated immediately.
• Bad Taste or Breath: Often due to bacterial build-up or infection.
• Recurring Swelling: It can be an indication of an impacted tooth or chronic pericoronitis.

You should follow treatment for oral swelling to avoid serious problems like abscess, damage to other teeth or other parts of the body, or systemic infection. At Smile Oracles Multispeciality Dental Clinic, our experienced team offers comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans to address wisdom tooth-related issues effectively

Summary

Swollen gums around a wisdom tooth can be more than just an inconvenience, as they may indicate serious dental problems that can lead to adverse outcomes if left untreated. Being familiar with the cause, knowing readily available safe home remedies, practicing preventive dental care, and knowing when to seek treatment from your dental professional can foster better oral health and deter unwanted, long-lasting consequences. If you are experiencing discomfort or swelling surrounding your wisdom tooth, whether it is in line with your typical experience when the tooth is erupting or not, do not wait to take care of your oral health. Schedule an appointment with the Smile Oracles Multispeciality Dental Clinic to receive guidance in achieving oral health and wellness that lasts.

FAQ

1. What causes swollen gums near a wisdom tooth?

Swelling can be due to an impacted wisdom tooth (the tooth doesn’t fully erupt), pericoronitis (infection under the gum flap), poor oral hygiene, or food debris trapped around the tooth. Gum disease or tooth decay. 

1. What are the symptoms to watch for?

The symptoms to watch for are:

• Red, tender, or bleeding gums
• Pain while chewing or opening the mouth
• Bad breath or foul taste
• Pus or discharge
• Swelling in the jaw or cheek
• Fever (in case of infection)

1. Can I treat swollen gums at home?

Yes, mild swelling can be eased with warm saltwater rinses, cold compresses, over-the-counter pain relievers, and antibacterial mouthwash. Hydrogen peroxide rinses should only be used if prescribed by your dentist. 

1. When should I see a dentist?

Seek professional help if:

• Swelling persists or worsens
• You have severe pain or fever
• There’s pus or signs of infection
• You can’t open your mouth properly
• Bad breath or taste doesn’t go away