Wisdom tooth pain or gum infection? How to tell the difference
Pain at the back of the jaw is often blamed on a wisdom tooth, but a gum infection can cause similar symptoms
Sudden pain or swelling at the back of the jaw is usually put down to a wisdom tooth coming through. But the cause is not always the wisdom tooth. An infection caused by plaque and bacteria building up in the gums can cause the same discomfort.
Since the symptoms of both conditions, pain and swelling, can look similar, it helps to know the difference. The wisdom tooth, or third molar, usually emerges in the late teens or early twenties. If there is not enough space for it to come through, or it does not emerge fully, it can cause pain, and food particles can lead to infection in the surrounding gums.
According to the American Dental Association, the two problems are not treated the same way. A wisdom tooth problem needs a close examination to check whether the tooth is coming in at the right angle, whether it is stuck, and whether there is any infection nearby. Gum disease, on the other hand, starts with plaque and bacteria and can develop into gingivitis or periodontitis. So the cause cannot always be judged from the intensity of the pain alone. The condition of the teeth, gum swelling, bleeding, pus, bad breath and the location of the pain all need to be looked at together.
The location and nature of the pain can differ between the two conditions, though a firm diagnosis cannot be made on symptoms alone. According to the Mayo Clinic, pain linked to a wisdom tooth is usually felt at the back of the mouth, around the last molar, and can spread to the ear, jaw or nearby areas. If the wisdom tooth has only partially emerged, there can be more swelling and pain at that spot, along with difficulty chewing or opening the mouth.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, a gum infection is not limited to just one wisdom tooth and can affect the gums around several teeth. Symptoms include bleeding while brushing or flossing, red or swollen gums, and bad breath. In severe gum disease, the gums can recede and teeth can become loose.
According to Columbia College of Dental Medicine, pain, swelling, a bad taste in the mouth and difficulty opening the mouth around a partially emerged wisdom tooth at the back of the mouth can be signs of pericoronitis. On the other hand, recurring bleeding gums, red and swollen gums, bad breath and, in severe cases, a loose tooth can be signs of gum disease.
If the pain persists, the swelling increases or pus appears, do not rely on home remedies alone. Only a dentist's examination can determine whether the problem is linked to a wisdom tooth, gum disease, tooth decay, a pus infection or another dental issue.
