Pain Relief from Wisdom Teeth

Pain and swelling from wisdom teeth can occur suddenly and progress rapidly. Early evaluation, antibiotics, and immediate extractions are the only way to solve the problem. Until you can see the oral surgeon, following are some recommendations for pain relief.

Pain only:

No associated swelling, drainage, or difficulty opening the mouth.

  • Take 400-600 mg of Ibuprofen (2-3 tablets of Advil) or 500-1000 mg of Tylenol every four hours for pain.
  • If the pain becomes more severe, you may take Vicodin or Tylenol #3 prescribed by your dentist.
  • Call your dentist immediately for evaluation or referral to an oral surgeon.
  • Mild inflammation may resolve by simply brushing the area and keeping it clean.
  • Extractions should be done as soon as possible before a potential increase in pain and infection.
  • Anbesol or other topical anesthetics are NOT effective for relief of pain associated with wisdom teeth. DO NOT place aspirin over a tooth to relieve pain. It will cause burning irritation to your gums.

The sole use of antibiotics to cure wisdom teeth problems is discouraged. In-fact repeated exposure to antibiotics can increase the risk of hypersensitivity or allergy and increase resistance to certain strains of bacteria. Removal of the tooth is the only definitive treatment.

Pain and Swelling:

Pain associated with facial or gum tissue swelling with possible drainage of pus or difficulty opening mouth.

  • Take 400-600 mg of Ibuprofen (2-3 tablets of Advil) or 500-1000 mg of Tylenol every four to six hours.
  • Call your dentist immediately for evaluation or referral to an oral surgeon.
  • Begin antibiotic therapy immediately. If you can not see an oral surgeon right away, ask your dentist to prescribe antibiotics and pain medication.
  • Extractions should be done as soon as possible, before infection spreads and involves other areas of face with potential life-threatening consequences.
  • It is not necessary to be on antibiotics for several days before surgery, as conditions can worsen quickly. This approach is outdated and no longer recommended.
  • Do not apply ice. It does not improve swelling caused by infection.
  • Do not place a heat pack on the face as it can draw the pus from the infection towards the skin and cause scarring.