If you’ve noticed that your wisdom teeth are causing discomfort by biting into your cheeks, you’re not alone. Many individuals experience this issue when their wisdom teeth start erupting or if they are partially impacted. While it can be bothersome, there are several steps you can take to manage the discomfort and prevent further irritation. In this article, we’ll explore some helpful strategies to address the problem of wisdom teeth biting into your cheeks.
Understanding Wisdom Teeth:
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. They are located at the back of your mouth, one set on each side of the upper and lower jaws. Some people’s wisdom teeth come in correctly and align with their other teeth, while others may experience problems like partial impaction, where the tooth does not fully emerge from the gum.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Bite Into Cheeks?
When wisdom teeth are partially impacted or erupt at an angle, they may not fit properly within the dental arch. This misalignment can cause the sharp edges of the tooth or the gum flap covering the partially erupted tooth to rub against the cheeks, leading to irritation and discomfort. Additionally, the pressure exerted by the wisdom teeth can cause the cheeks to become inflamed or even injured, resulting in painful sores.
Tips to Manage Wisdom Teeth Biting Into Cheeks:
While the best long-term solution for problematic wisdom teeth is often their removal, there are some strategies you can try to manage the discomfort until you can see a dentist:
- Good Oral Hygiene: Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing your teeth gently and using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be mindful of the areas around your wisdom teeth, ensuring they are clean and free from food debris.
- Rinsing with Saltwater: Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater several times a day. This helps to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated tissues.
- Topical Pain Relief: Apply a topical oral gel or ointment that contains benzocaine to the affected area. These over-the-counter products can temporarily numb the pain and ease discomfort.
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Avoid consuming spicy, acidic, or hard foods that may further irritate your cheeks and gums.
- Use Orthodontic Wax: If you have sharp edges on your wisdom teeth, consider using orthodontic wax to create a barrier between the tooth and your cheeks.
- Soft Diet: Stick to a soft diet, including foods like soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies, to minimize the need for excessive chewing.
- Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Follow the recommended dosage and guidelines.
When to See a Dentist:
If your wisdom teeth continue to cause discomfort and irritation despite your efforts to manage the situation, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with your dentist. They can evaluate the position of your wisdom teeth and recommend appropriate treatment. In many cases, the best solution for wisdom teeth that are causing persistent issues is their removal. Wisdom tooth extraction is a common and safe procedure that can alleviate the discomfort and prevent further problems.
What to do when your wisdom teeth cut your cheeks?
When your wisdom teeth cut or irritate your cheeks, it can be uncomfortable and painful. While waiting for a dental appointment or before deciding on wisdom tooth extraction, you can take the following steps to manage the situation and promote healing:
- Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be sure to clean around your wisdom teeth and use a mouthwash to keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection.
- Rinsing with Saltwater: Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater several times a day. This helps to reduce inflammation, soothe irritated tissues, and promote healing.
- Topical Pain Relief: Apply a topical oral gel or ointment that contains benzocaine to the affected area. These over-the-counter products can temporarily numb the pain and ease discomfort.
- Orthodontic Wax: If you have sharp edges on your wisdom teeth, consider using orthodontic wax. Apply a small amount of wax to the offending tooth to create a barrier between the tooth and your cheeks, reducing further irritation.
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Avoid consuming spicy, acidic, or hard foods that may further irritate your cheeks and gums.
- Soft Diet: Stick to a soft diet, including foods like soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies, to minimize the need for excessive chewing.
- Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Follow the recommended dosage and guidelines.
- Avoid Chewing on That Side: If possible, avoid chewing on the side where your wisdom teeth are causing irritation to give the area time to heal.
- Keep Mouth Moist: Dry mouth can worsen cheek irritation. Stay hydrated and consider using sugar-free gum or lozenges to stimulate saliva production.
- Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and alcohol can irritate the oral tissues, making healing more difficult. Refrain from smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
- Consult with a Dentist: Schedule an appointment with your dentist to have your wisdom teeth evaluated. They can determine the best course of action, which may involve wisdom tooth extraction if the irritation persists or the teeth are impacted.
Remember, while these measures can provide temporary relief, they may not solve the underlying issue of wisdom teeth cutting your cheeks. It’s essential to see a dentist for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Wisdom tooth extraction is a common and safe procedure that can alleviate the discomfort and prevent further problems associated with impacted wisdom teeth. The dentist will discuss the best approach based on your specific case and oral health needs.
Do Wisdom teeth help you chew?
Yes, wisdom teeth can help with chewing, but their contribution to the chewing process varies from person to person. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars located at the back of the mouth. Historically, these teeth were more critical for our ancestors, who had a diet that included tougher and coarser foods, which required more chewing power.
However, in modern times, our diet has evolved, and our jaws have become smaller. As a result, many people do not have enough space in their mouths to accommodate wisdom teeth properly. This lack of space often leads to wisdom teeth becoming impacted (partially or fully trapped beneath the gum line) or growing in at an angle, causing various dental issues.
The presence and functionality of wisdom teeth differ from person to person. Some individuals may have enough space for their wisdom teeth to emerge fully and function in chewing. In such cases, wisdom teeth can contribute to the overall chewing process, especially if the other molars are missing or damaged.
On the other hand, many people experience problems with their wisdom teeth, such as pain, discomfort, gum inflammation, or the risk of infection. In such cases, dentists often recommend wisdom tooth extraction to prevent further issues and protect oral health.
Overall, the role of wisdom teeth in chewing varies widely based on factors like genetics, jaw size, and individual dental anatomy. If you have concerns about your wisdom teeth, it’s essential to consult with a dentist for a comprehensive evaluation. They can assess your specific situation and provide personalized recommendations for managing your wisdom teeth and maintaining optimal oral health.
Conclusion:
If your wisdom teeth are biting into your cheeks and causing discomfort, it’s crucial to take steps to manage the irritation until you can see a dentist. Good oral hygiene, saltwater rinses, topical pain relief, and a soft diet can help ease the discomfort. However, for a long-term solution, it’s best to consult with a dentist to determine if wisdom tooth extraction is necessary. Remember, each individual’s situation is unique, so seeking professional advice is essential to ensure the best course of action for your oral health.
