What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are your third molars, usually the last teeth to come in — typically between ages 17 and 25. Some people get them without issue; others experience crowding, pain, or infection. In many modern mouths there simply isn’t enough room for these back molars.

Common problems caused by wisdom teeth

• Impaction — a wisdom tooth that gets stuck under the gum or grows at an angle.
• Infection — partially erupted teeth can trap food and bacteria, causing gum swelling or pericoronitis.
• Crowding — pressure on adjacent teeth, which can be a cosmetic or orthodontic concern.
• Decay — it’s harder to clean back molars, increasing cavity risk.

Signs you should see a dentist (in Torrance)

If you notice any of the following, schedule an evaluation with a Torrance dentist:

• Persistent pain behind your back teeth or along the jaw.
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums near the back molars.
• Difficulty opening your mouth fully.
• Bad taste or recurring infections near a partially erupted tooth.

What to do right now if your wisdom tooth hurts

If you’re asking “what should I do if my wisdom tooth hurts”, follow these steps while you arrange dental care:

• Rinse with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 oz warm water) to reduce bacteria.
• Use an over-the-counter pain reliever (acetaminophen or ibuprofen) as directed.
• Avoid chewing on the painful side and stick to soft foods.
• If swelling is present, apply a cold pack to the cheek for 10–15 minutes at a time.
• Call a dentist promptly if you have fever, severe swelling, or trouble breathing — these can be signs of a spreading infection.