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Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often emerge in the late teens and early twenties.
For many, this natural part of mouth development can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, including sore throat and oral pain. Yup you read that right! Emerging wisdom teeth can cause a sore throat!
In this blog, you will learn about the symptoms associated with wisdom teeth eruption and how to find relief from throat pain and other discomforts.
Table of Contents
- Can Wisdom Teeth Cause Sore Throat?
- Common Symptoms When Wisdom Teeth Erupt
- Why Impacted Wisdom Teeth Worsen Symptoms
- How to Relieve a Sore Throat from Wisdom Teeth
- When to Seek Professional Care
- Book A Consultation Oral Facial & Implant Specialists Today
- FAQs
Key Takeaway
Wisdom teeth can cause sore throat due to gum inflammation and potential infection during their eruption, often leading to other uncomfortable symptoms like jaw pain, swollen lymph nodes, and ear pain.
Can Wisdom Teeth Cause Sore Throat?
Yes, wisdom teeth can cause a sore throat.
When these back teeth begin to erupt, they can create swelling and irritation in the surrounding gum tissues.
This inflammation can extend to the throat, causing throat pain and discomfort, especially if the teeth become impacted.
Impacted wisdom tooth symptoms include:
- Sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Jaw pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Bad breath due to trapped food particles
- Unpleasant tastes in the mouth
- Swelling in the gums
For more information about the “impact” of impacted wisdom teeth, read: Impacted Wisdom Teeth: A Ticking Time Bomb?
Common Symptoms When Wisdom Teeth Erupt
When third molars emerge, several symptoms may arise, including:
- Sore throat and throat pain: Due to gum inflammation spreading to the throat.
- Swollen lymph nodes and glands: A sign of infection or irritation.
- Bad breath and unpleasant taste: Often caused by trapped food debris and bacteria around the tooth.
- Ear pain: The nerves around the jaw and ears can be affected by impacted teeth.
- Jaw pain and facial swelling: Pressure from the emerging back teeth can affect the jaw.
- Cold-like symptoms: Runny noses, headaches, and general discomfort.
Why Impacted Wisdom Teeth Worsen Symptoms
An impacted wisdom tooth occurs when the tooth does not fully emerge from the gum.
This can lead to:
- Infection and tooth decay: Food bits and bacteria get trapped under the flap of gum tissue.
- Tooth abscess: An infected tooth can create pus pockets.
- Swollen lymph glands: Often a sign of a spreading infection.
- Painful symptoms: Persistent tooth pain and severe pain may occur if left untreated.
- Sinus infections and throat infections: Bacteria from the impacted area can spread.
Read this article to learn how to identify an abscessed tooth: What Does An Abscessed Tooth Look Like? Key Signs To Watch For
How to Relieve a Sore Throat from Wisdom Teeth
If you experience a sore throat, here are effective remedies:
- Warm salt water rinse: Mix a teaspoon of salt with warm water to reduce inflammation.
- Antiseptic mouthwash: Helps to kill bacteria and keep the area clean.
- Cold compress: Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Medications like ibuprofen can manage pain.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to flush bacteria and promote healing.
- Good oral hygiene: Brush gently around the area to remove food debris.
Check out this blog for more tips: Why Does My Wisdom Tooth Hurt? How To Get Relief
When to Seek Professional Care
If your symptoms persist or worsen, professional intervention may be necessary.
Signs that require a visit to an oral health professional include:
- Severe throat pain
- Persistent jaw pain
- Signs of infection (pus, fever, swollen lymph nodes)
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Wisdom tooth removal may be recommended for proper healing and to prevent further oral health issues.
The Importance of Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Leaving an unhealthy wisdom tooth untreated can lead to:
- Tooth decay and gum disease
- Tooth abscesses
- Damage to nearby teeth
- Chronic sore throat
Book A Consultation Oral Facial & Implant Specialists Today
If you are struggling with wisdom tooth pain or would like an evaluation to see if your wisdom teeth need to be removed, contact Oral Facial & Implant Specialists today for expert care.
If your dentist has suggested wisdom tooth removal, they can refer to us by filling out our referral form. However, you do not need a referral to book an appointment at our office.
To book an appointment at our oral surgeons office in Deer Park, IL, call (847) 381-0106 or visit us at 21660 W. Field Parkway, Suite 220, Deer Park, IL.
FAQs
Yes, wisdom teeth can cause ear pain. The nerves in the jaw and face are interconnected, so pain from an impacted tooth can radiate to the ear, often accompanied by jaw pain and headaches.
Signs of an infected wisdom tooth include swollen gums, pus discharge, severe pain, bad breath, and difficulty opening your mouth fully.
If you experience persistent pain, recurring infections, difficulty chewing, or crowding of nearby teeth, you should consider wisdom tooth removal.