What should I do about swollen and painful gums around my wisdom tooth?
Disease description:
I've developed a wisdom tooth, and the area has been severely inflamed, swollen, and painful in recent days. I would like to ask the doctor, what should I do for the swollen and painful gums around the wisdom tooth?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Chao
Swelling and pain in the gum around a wisdom tooth may be caused by pericoronitis, a common condition involving inflammation of the soft tissues surrounding the wisdom tooth. The following are some suggestions for alleviating symptoms:
1. Oral hygiene: Maintain good oral cleanliness, especially in the area of the wisdom tooth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and carefully clean the gums around the wisdom tooth to avoid accumulation of food debris. Use dental floss to help clean the spaces between adjacent teeth.
2. Rinse with warm salt water: Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times daily, which can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
3. Cold compress: If there is facial swelling, try applying a cold compress wrapped in a cloth to the cheek for 15 minutes, wait for a while, and then apply again to reduce swelling.
4. Over-the-counter medications: Short-term use of over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen capsules, may help alleviate pain. However, medication should be taken under the guidance of a doctor.
5. Dietary adjustments: Choose soft foods and avoid chewing that may further irritate the affected area.
If the pain persists or if symptoms such as fever or pus discharge occur, seek medical attention promptly.
