There are several potential reasons why you might be experiencing gum pain years after wisdom teeth removal, and without a proper examination, it's difficult to pinpoint the exact cause. One possibility, however, is a condition called atypical odontalgia.
Here's a breakdown of possible causes and more information:
Possible Causes of Gum Pain After Wisdom Teeth Removal
It's important to consult with your dentist or oral surgeon for a definitive diagnosis, but here are some potential reasons for your gum pain:
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Atypical Odontalgia (Phantom Tooth Pain): This is a chronic pain condition that can occur after tooth extraction. According to the reference, it's characterized by chronic pain in a site where teeth have been extracted without an identifiable cause. This pain can feel like it's coming from the gums or the area where the wisdom teeth used to be. It is also known as atypical facial pain or neuropathic orofacial pain.
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Nerve Damage: Although rare, nerve damage can occur during wisdom teeth removal. This damage may cause ongoing pain or sensitivity in the gums.
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Infection: While less likely years after the extraction, a deep-seated infection could still be present or have re-emerged.
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Referred Pain: Pain from another area, such as the jaw joint (TMJ) or nearby teeth, could be referred to the gums where the wisdom teeth were removed.
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Scar Tissue: Scar tissue formation can sometimes cause discomfort or pain.
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Bone Spurs: Small fragments of bone can sometimes remain after extraction and can irritate the gums.
Atypical Odontalgia Explained
As mentioned above, atypical odontalgia, or phantom tooth pain, is a possible explanation for your gum pain. Here's a little more information about this condition:
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Symptoms: The pain can be constant or intermittent and may be described as burning, aching, or throbbing.
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Diagnosis: It can be difficult to diagnose because there's often no visible sign of a problem. Diagnosis usually involves ruling out other potential causes of pain.
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Treatment: Treatment can be challenging and may involve pain medications, nerve blocks, or other therapies.
What Should You Do?
- Schedule an appointment with your dentist or oral surgeon. They can perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of your pain.
- Be prepared to describe your pain in detail. This includes the location, intensity, frequency, and any factors that make it better or worse.
- Follow your dentist's or oral surgeon’s recommendations for treatment. This may include medication, physical therapy, or other interventions.
