What Causes Swelling In The Region Of Wisdom Tooth?

Posted on Mon, 23 Mar 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 23 Mar 2015 Answered on

Mon, 13 Apr 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello, Im a 36 yo male Caucasian. I've been having issues with my upper right gum where my wisdom tooth once was. There is a bump right where the tooth was. Doesn't hurt all that bad, but enough to where I notice it and Take ibuprofen for it. No red irritation, looks just like the other side of mouth, just bigger. Also noticed some sinus headaches and I do have a history of sinus issues although no stuffiness now. Also in my throat there is a very dull pain that almost feels like indigestion but doesn't really burn, just a dull ache when I try to burp intentionally. No one issues swallowing, appetite is fine, and I feel otherwise healthy. I was at the dentist and he told me he wasn't really sure what was going on, but didn't think it was anything to worry about. It's been going on for about a month and I'm getting tired of it. Can you help? Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Priyanka Tiwari (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Bony spicule, supenumery tooth.

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXXXX,

Thanks for consulting healthcaremagic .
This is Dr. Priyanka Tiwari answering your query .

Read your query and understand your concern as you have bump like swelling in region of wisdom tooth it can be due to some reason which include -
- Bony spicule present after removal of wisdom tooth .
- inflammation of gum due to trauma from opposing tooth or Periodontal infection .
- supernumery tooth (extra wisdom tooth ) present in region of wisdom tooth .
- Throat infection or swollen glands in region of neck also cause pain and swelling.

Perhaps you can discuss about these possibilities with the dentist during your next visit. As such the aforementioned conditions are not concerning. So you need not be worried. Following a visual examination if necessary investigation like Iopa xray of region may be ordered to help us arrive at a diagnosis.

In meantime I will suggest you to Do warm saline rinses 3 - 4 times a day .
-You can apply ointment like Gum paint or oragel on wisdom tooth region .
- Pain medications can be continued whenever required. The need for antibiotics can be discussed with your dentist.
- Maintain proper oral hygiene by brushing and use chlorhexidine mouthwash regularly .

Hope my answer helps you . If you have further query feel free to ask I will be happy to help .

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad