Wisdom teeth are usually the last of the teeth to emerge. Most adults have four wisdom teeth, although they can have less. These teeth normally begin to appear from the age of 17 to 25 and may take a while to emerge completely. Since, they appear last, they may not have enough space in the jaw and can thus appear on the side of the jaw bone. This is known as an impacted wisdom tooth. When this happens it can be quite painful to the extent of causing headaches, tenderness in the gums, swelling near the jaw and even red and swollen gums near the tooth. Pain from the tooth may be caused by decay that can potentially infect nerve endings and blood vessels. It could also point to gum infections, molar decay or a cracked bicuspid.
Impacted wisdom teeth are quite common. Research indicates that 44% adults have impacted wisdom teeth. Doctors sometimes prescribe removal of impacted wisdom teeth; however, if your tooth is not causing too much trouble you can try easing the pain with some home remedies. However, if you do not get relief from these remedies be sure to visit a dentist to prevent loss of your tooth.
Cloves have been used for many years to relieve tooth pain. You can purchase a bottle of clove oil that is normally available in stores and use it for a few days. Pour a few drops of clove oil on a cotton ball and place it near or over the area that is hurting. This should soothe the pain. Also, make sure to rinse your mouth after meals to prevent food particles from getting lodged between the teeth and gums. You can also, buy a soft bristled tooth brush to brush your teeth until the wisdom tooth completely emerges. This will prevent unnecessary irritation of the gums that might already be sore from the emerging tooth. Use a tooth paste that is meant for sensitive teeth and gums, this should effectively reduce the pain that you are experiencing. Some people use salt to numb pain, you can prepare a salt water solution with 1 tablespoon salt mixed in 1 cup of water, and use it to gargle or wash your mouth. Use the solution after brushing and before going to bed. Although, it may sting at first, salt has healing properties that will help your sore gums and gradually cut down the discomfort that you are experiencing.