Wisdom Teeth Pain Relief

4. January, 2012 by Dr Rippin Blog

Wisdom teeth pain relief is unfortunately an unavoidable requirement. As the tooth, or teeth, begin to erupt (that is break through the surface of the gum) it can cause aching, swelling, bleeding and infection. There are a number of different ways to aid you through this sometimes painful process.

Over The Counter Wisdom Teeth Pain Relief

Your first port of call (unless the pain is particularly severe) should be to try some over the counter wisdom teeth pain relief solutions such as the following:

Aspirin – Good old aspirin has many uses and relief from wisdom tooth pain is one of them. While it isn’t the most effective of solutions available for this application it may take the edge off the pain due to its anti-inflammatory properties. As a word of warning do not put aspirin directly on the affected area as you will experience an unpleasant burning sensation, just take it as if you were treating any other ailment.
Ibuprofen – Ibuprofen is probably the best choice for over the counter wisdom teeth pain relief. It possesses anti-inflammatory and pain relieving qualities as with Aspirin only more effective. Many people also find that the drug is relatively easy on the stomach.
Benzocaine – Found in many commonly available numbing gels such as Anbesol or Bonjela, it is an extremely effective form of wisdom teeth pain relief. These products work best if there is actually a cavity in which you can apply the gel but it will also help to sooth the area if the wisdom tooth has not yet erupted.
Simply dab the gel onto the offending area preferably using a cotton bud, failing that using your finger will do the job just make sure you have washed your hand first as you will only make the situation worse if the area becomes infected due to bringing unwanted contaminants into your mouth.

Prescription Wisdom Teeth Pain Relief

If none of the solutions mentioned above assist you in relieving wisdom tooth pain then you may need to visit your doctor or dentist so they can examine your situation and decide on the best form of wisdom teeth pain relief.

Codeine and Hydrocodone – The most commonly prescribed forms of medication for this purpose are Codeine and Hydrocodone. Both drugs are a lot stronger than their freely available counterparts and therefore need to be taken with caution. Although they are both very potent pain killers they can also cause drowsiness and as such may not be suitable for use during the day but are perfect for use before sleeping because they will have a dual purpose, relieving pain and helping you sleep.
Oxycodone – Not a very commonly prescribed for wisdom teeth pain relief due to its potency and the fact that it is considered a class 2 narcotic. It is prescribed in situations where the pain is extremely severe and the patient has not responded to any other types of pain relief.

Other Types Of Wisdom Teeth Pain Relief

If you prefer not to use any of the drugs/products mentioned above then there are a variety of methods that could assist in the problem you are facing.

Salt Water – Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater is a simple yet effective form of wisdom teeth pain relief. All you need to do is add a tablespoon of salt to a glass of water and gargle the solution for a few moments. As well as pain relief this method will also help to kill any bacteria around the wisdom tooth, reduce infection and remove any food debris from the area which could cause irritation.
Ice – Applying ice to the painful area can give you instant but temporary relief from the pain you are suffering. This can be accomplished by sucking on an ice cube or holding an ice pack to the painful area.
Clove Oil – Clove oil is a surprisingly effective natural form of wisdom teeth pain relief. Simply apply the oil using a cotton bud or finger directly onto the painful area and you should feel almost instant pain relief.
Massage – Very gently massaging the affected are can provide a certain amount of pain relief from your wisdom teeth buy promoting blood circulation in the area which in turn increases your gums healing ability. However if your gum is particularly swollen this can worsen the situation so use caution.
Tobacco/Smoking – Tobacco is bad for your health in all situations but a particularly bad idea when in need of wisdom teeth pain relief. It will cause further irritation to your gums, increases adrenaline production (which makes you feel more pain), and the nicotine blocks endorphins (which means you feel even more pain). Stopping smoking, chewing tobacco, or using snuff really will do wonders for your pain.

An Importnant Note Regarding Wisdom Teeth Pain Relief

The most important thing, as with any aspect of your health, is to have the problem examined by a medical professional. They will advise you on the best possible solution in your case.