You’re probably familiar with the feeling of accidentally biting the inside of your cheek. But have you ever had to deal with your wisdom tooth cutting into your cheek? Rather than the sudden bout of pain that comes and goes from the accidental bite, this is an uncomfortable feeling that stays.
Every time you open or close your mouth, the sharply-edged wisdom tooth is right there, grazing against your cheek, stabbing it. But why does this happen, and how can you get rid of it? To find out, keep on reading this blog.
What Should I Do If My Wisdom Tooth Is Cutting My Cheek?
If you’re tired of the constant pain and tenderness in your cheek from the wisdom tooth, you’re probably trying to find a way to make it manageable. But sadly, there isn’t anything you can do to minimize the pain.
When considering long-term solutions, you can schedule a wisdom tooth extraction surgery. However, if you’re too tied up for surgery, cold and warm compresses will be your best friends.
Alternate between a hot compress and a cold one to soothe the ache. You can even take over-the-counter pain-relieving medications if the pain gets too much to bear.
Why Is My Wisdom Tooth Growing Into My Cheek?
The reason your wisdom tooth pokes out from its place is due to a small mouth and jaw. Not to mention, since wisdom teeth are considered to be fourth molars, they have nowhere else to go but get squished in the corner.
Our ancestors needed molars to eat tough and leathery foods. But our eating habits and mannerisms have drastically changed since the evolutionary process. This is why sometimes wisdom teeth can feel so out of place.
Nevertheless, there are three main reasons why your wisdom tooth might be cutting into your cheek:
- Impaction
A wisdom tooth growing in odd directions is known as an impacted tooth. Whether it’s sideways or diagonal, an impacted wisdom tooth can cause a a lot of pain and bleeding. Especially if it pokes out of the gums. - Lack of Space
If you have a small face with a small jaw and chin, you’re likely to face this issue. Due to the narrow space, the wisdom tooth might erupt at an odd angle, stabbing your cheek in the process. - Eating too Fast
Not everyone has a small jaw or impacted teeth. Sometimes the culprit is just you. When you’re too hungry or tend to eat fast, your cheeks can get in the way, clashing against the growing tooth.
How To Stop Wisdom Tooth From Cutting Into Cheek
The best way to stop your wisdom tooth from digging into your cheek is by getting it removed. You can also opt for other treatment methods, such as:
- Dental Contouring to Trim the Tooth
- Wisdom Teeth Extraction
- OTC Pain Relief Medications
- Maintain a Healthy and Balanced Diet
- Regularly Use a Saltwater Rinse
- Chew Slowly When Eating
Closing Word
If your wisdom tooth is still cutting into your cheek, even after taking the necessary precautions, it’s time to visit a dentist. Only a professional dental care worker can explain and take care of the matter best.
For more information, contact Spring Branch Dental Group at (832) 548-1533. You can also visit our dentistry at 9738 Katy Fwy #400, Houston, TX 77055, United States. It’s located right beside Pearle Vision.