How long can a wisdom tooth pain last

Wisdom-tooth pain often settles within a few days when mild, but pain from infection or impaction may persist or return until a dentist treats its cause.

Wisdom-tooth pain comes from inflamed gum over a partly erupted tooth, pressure from an impaction, decay, or infection around the tooth. The duration depends on which tissue is inflamed and whether the irritant remains.

Rinse gently with warm salt water, keep food from collecting around the tooth, and use a suitable over-the-counter pain reliever. Do not place aspirin on the gum or try to open a swelling.

Arrange dental care if pain lasts beyond a few days, keeps returning, or comes with swelling, bad taste, fever, or difficulty opening, swallowing, or breathing.

Ask whether the tooth is erupting normally or impacted, whether an X-ray is needed, and whether cleaning, a filling, medication, or removal addresses the cause.