Wisdom tooth pain in Ottawa can begin as tenderness behind the last molar, swelling around a partially erupted tooth, or discomfort when chewing. Wisdom teeth—also called third molars—often appear in late adolescence or early adulthood. Some come in normally and remain healthy. Others do not have enough room, emerge at an angle, or stay partly covered by gum tissue.
Pain near the back of the jaw has several possible causes, so an examination is important. A dentist can assess whether a wisdom tooth, a neighbouring tooth, the gums, or another condition is responsible.
Why wisdom teeth can become painful
The Public Health Agency of Canada explains that wisdom teeth usually appear between ages 17 and 21. If there is not enough space or a tooth is positioned sideways, food and plaque may collect where brushing and flossing are difficult. Bacteria can then irritate or infect the surrounding gum.
A wisdom tooth can also be impacted, meaning it does not fully emerge into the mouth. According to the Ontario Dental Association, impacted teeth may be associated with pain, infection, or damage to neighbouring teeth. Not every wisdom tooth needs removal; the recommendation depends on symptoms, position, gum health, available space, nearby teeth, and cavity risk.
Symptoms worth arranging an assessment for
- pain or pressure behind the last molar;
- red, puffy, tender, or bleeding gum tissue;
- food repeatedly becoming trapped at the back of the mouth;
- bad breath or an unpleasant taste that persists;
- difficulty opening the mouth comfortably;
- pain when chewing or biting; or
- swelling around the jaw or cheek.
These signs do not identify the cause by themselves. A cavity, cracked tooth, gum infection, jaw-muscle problem, or another condition can produce similar discomfort.
When symptoms need urgent care
Call a dental office promptly if pain is severe, swelling is increasing, you have fever, pus or drainage is present, or opening the mouth is becoming difficult. Call 911 or seek emergency medical care for trouble breathing or swallowing, rapidly spreading swelling of the face or neck, confusion, fainting, or another severe medical symptom.
What to do while waiting for an appointment
Keep the area as clean as you comfortably can with gentle brushing. Rinsing with warm salt water may temporarily soothe irritated tissue, but it does not treat the underlying cause. Choose softer foods and avoid chewing on the painful side. Do not press, puncture, or attempt to cut gum tissue. Do not place aspirin directly on the gum because it can burn the tissue.
Over-the-counter pain medicine may be appropriate for some people, but follow the package directions and ask a pharmacist if you take other medication, have medical conditions, are pregnant, or are unsure what is safe for you.
How a dentist assesses a wisdom tooth
The dentist will review symptoms and health history, examine the tooth and surrounding tissues, and assess the bite and nearby teeth. Dental imaging may be recommended when it is expected to provide useful information about the tooth’s position, roots, surrounding bone, or neighbouring structures. Read our guide to dental X-rays in Ottawa for more information about justification and safety.
Does every wisdom tooth need removal?
No. A healthy wisdom tooth that has erupted normally, can be cleaned, and is not causing problems may be monitored. Removal may be discussed when a tooth is repeatedly painful or infected, cannot be kept clean, has decay, affects a neighbouring tooth, or presents another clinically significant risk. The expected benefits and risks should be considered for the individual patient.
If removal is recommended, the dentist will explain the procedure, expected recovery, possible risks, and whether referral is appropriate. No treatment result can be guaranteed before assessment.
Book a wisdom-tooth assessment in Ottawa
Ottawa Smiles Family Dental provides clinical care in English and Arabic, with Spanish care available with Dr. Marisol Seguel as appropriate for the appointment. French front-desk and administrative support is available for scheduling and office information; this does not imply French-language clinical care.
Request an appointment or call 613-520-0222. For urgent symptoms, call the office.
This article provides general education and does not replace an individual dental or medical assessment.
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Resumen en español
El dolor de la muela del juicio puede relacionarse con falta de espacio, impactación o inflamación de la encía. Solicite una evaluación si hay dolor, hinchazón, sangrado o mal sabor persistente. No todas las muelas del juicio requieren extracción; la decisión depende del examen individual. Ottawa Smiles Family Dental ofrece atención clínica en español con la Dra. Marisol Seguel según corresponda a la cita.
Résumé en français
La douleur près d’une dent de sagesse peut être liée à un manque d’espace, à une dent incluse ou à une inflammation de la gencive. Une évaluation est recommandée en cas de douleur, d’enflure ou de saignement. Ottawa Smiles Family Dental offre un soutien à l’accueil et administratif en français pour les rendez-vous et les renseignements; cela ne signifie pas que les soins cliniques sont offerts en français.