What Should I Do If My Wisdom Teeth Hurt? A Guide to Oral Surgery and Specialist Care
If your wisdom teeth are starting to ache, throb or feel tender when you bite, you are not alone. Wisdom teeth, the third molars at the back of your mouth, often cause discomfort in the late teens through to adulthood. Some settle down with simple care. Others need attention from an oral surgery specialist. Here is how to understand the cause of your pain, when to seek help, and what to expect from specialist-led removal at Pallant Advanced Dentistry in Chichester.
Wisdom tooth pain has several common causes:
- Limited space. Your jaw may not have room for the tooth to fully erupt, causing pressure, aches and headaches.
- Partial eruption. A tooth that only partially breaks through can trap plaque and food under a gum flap (pericoronitis), leading to swelling, tenderness and bad breath.
- Impaction. A tooth growing at an angle can press against the molar in front, increasing decay and gum risks.
- Infection. Red, swollen gums, bad taste and difficulty opening your mouth can indicate bacterial buildup.
- Cysts or neighbouring damage. Less commonly, an impacted tooth may form a cyst or wear down the adjacent tooth.
Short-term measures like saltwater rinses, over-the-counter pain relief taken as directed, and gentle brushing may help. Persistent pain, swelling or trouble opening your mouth means it is time for professional assessment.
When to see a specialist or oral surgeon
Contact a specialist oral surgeon promptly if you experience:
- Pain lasting more than a few days or recurring
- Repeated swelling around a wisdom tooth
- Difficulty opening, chewing or swallowing
- Signs of infection such as bad taste, discharge or fever
- Suspected damage to nearby teeth
- Orthodontic concerns linked to erupting teeth
At Pallant Advanced Dentistry, assessments are led by experienced clinicians using digital X-rays and 3D scans when needed. We confirm whether the tooth may settle with local care or if extraction is the safer option.
What are my options if removal is recommended?
Treatment is tailored to your needs:
- Conservative care. For mild pericoronitis, we may clean the area, rinse and advise hygiene steps.
- Simple extraction. Straightforward, fully erupted teeth can be removed quickly under local anaesthetic.
- Surgical extraction. For impacted or partially erupted teeth, a small incision and gentle bone shaping may be required—routine in specialist hands.
If you are planning orthodontic treatment, wisdom teeth may be considered in your bite plan. Our team collaborates closely with our Specialist Orthodontists.
How the oral surgery process works at Pallant Advanced Dentistry
Here is what to expect if you are referred to us for wisdom tooth removal:
- Specialist consultation. Full history, examination and digital imaging (panoramic X-rays or CBCT scans if needed).
- Personalised plan and quote. Clear explanation of findings, risks, benefits and a written fee estimate.
- Comfortable anaesthesia options. Most extractions are completed comfortably with local anaesthetic; additional calming options may be discussed for anxious patients.
- Meticulous surgical technique. Tissue-preserving methods, careful tooth sectioning and thorough irrigation promote smoother recovery.
- Safety at every step. Rigorous infection control and an experienced surgical nursing team support you throughout.
- Aftercare and follow-up. Written instructions, tailored pain relief advice and a review plan ensure confident healing.
How we ensure your comfort and safety
Your comfort and safety guide every stage of care:
- Painless treatment. Local anaesthetic is carefully delivered and checked before we begin.
- Evidence-based protocols. From imaging to medication guidance, we follow current best practice.
- Clear instructions. You will know exactly how to care for the area at home, including rest, hygiene and activity advice.
- Accessible support. Treatment Coordinators and clinicians are available if you need reassurance.
If orthodontics is part of your wider plan, we coordinate with our specialist team to keep your treatment on track.
What does wisdom tooth removal cost?
Costs vary depending on complexity, number of teeth and imaging requirements. You will receive a written quote after your assessment, with options for staged treatment if suitable. Flexible monthly payment plans, including 0 percent finance on selected treatments (subject to status), are available.
Recovery timeline and practical tips
Most patients return to study or desk work within:
- 1–2 days after a simple extraction
- A few days after surgical removal
Swelling typically peaks at 48–72 hours and then settles.
Helpful recovery tips:
- Apply a cold compress in short intervals on day one
- Sleep slightly elevated on the first night
- Avoid smoking and alcohol while healing
- Choose soft foods, then gradually return to your normal diet
- Brush gently and use saltwater rinses from day two
If pain increases after initial improvement or you notice persistent bad taste, contact us so we can check for dry socket or trapped debris.
Why choose Pallant Advanced Dentistry for wisdom teeth
You will be cared for by a specialist-led team in a modern Chichester practice, just a short walk from the station and Cattle Market car park. We bring oral surgery, restorative dentistry and Specialist Orthodontics together, ensuring coordinated care - especially when wisdom teeth affect your bite or alignment.
Summary and next steps
Wisdom tooth pain is common and has clear causes. Persistent symptoms deserve accurate diagnosis and specialist attention. At Pallant Advanced Dentistry, you will receive clear answers, a tailored plan and gentle, expert care from consultation to recovery.
If your wisdom teeth are troubling you, book an appointment with our Chichester team. We will help you feel comfortable again and plan any needed removal safely and smoothly.
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