Symptoms, explained
Wisdom tooth pain: why it flares up and how we calm it down
Pain at the back of your mouth can come from a wisdom tooth, the surrounding gum or another tooth. We assess the cause and explain whether cleaning, monitoring, removal or referral is appropriate.
This page can’t diagnose you. Similar symptoms can have different causes. A dentist uses your history, an examination and any appropriate tests to explain what is happening and what care you need.
Toothache right now? Call reception to check the next available appointment.
Call nowGo to an emergency department NOW — don’t wait for us — if you have: swelling under the tongue or into the neck, difficulty swallowing, speaking or breathing, drooling because you can’t swallow, an eye swelling shut, or rapidly spreading facial swelling with fever. These are medical emergencies first and dental problems second.
A swollen or sore gum behind the last tooth
A partly erupted wisdom tooth can leave an area that is difficult to clean. Inflammation or infection around it is one possible cause of soreness, but decay and other problems can feel similar.
What you should do
Contact reception for urgent dental assessment. If we are closed or cannot see you promptly, contact another available dentist. Do not wait for a WhatsApp reply if symptoms are worsening.
What an assessment may involve
The dentist examines the area and may recommend an X-ray. Care can include cleaning around the tooth, advice for home care and a plan for further treatment. The approach depends on the findings.
Ask a dentist or pharmacist about suitable pain relief and follow the label. Antibiotics are prescribed only when indicated; they do not replace care of the dental source.
What you should do
Contact reception to arrange an assessment and describe your symptoms. Ask how soon you should be seen; new swelling, severe pain or an injury needs urgent advice.
Swelling, fever or difficulty opening your mouth
These symptoms need urgent advice. Infection is one possibility and can spread. Marked difficulty opening the mouth, rapidly increasing swelling or feeling very unwell needs immediate assessment; breathing or swallowing difficulty needs hospital emergency care.
What you should do
Contact reception for urgent dental assessment. If we are closed or cannot see you promptly, contact another available dentist. Do not wait for a WhatsApp reply if symptoms are worsening.
If the problem keeps returning
Repeated problems are a reason to discuss the longer-term options. Removal may help in suitable cases; timing depends on the infection, tooth position and your health. Some cases need referral. A healthy tooth without problems may be monitored.
- If removal is recommended, the dentist explains the procedure, risks, alternatives and fee before you decide.
What you should do
Arrange a dental assessment to discuss the cause and options. Tell reception if pain, swelling, injury or a recent change makes the problem more urgent.
What it costs
We quote before we treat. Ask reception about consultation fees and your medical aid. Cover depends on your scheme, plan and available benefits; co-payments may apply. Confirm benefits and any required authorisation before treatment.
On a medical aid? Understand medical aid and treatment quotes — then check your plan’s benefits and any authorisation with your scheme. A benefit check is not a guarantee of payment.
Related dental guides
Sources for this guide
General patient information supports this guide. Your dentist assesses your own symptoms, treatment and aftercare; overseas service numbers and payment rules do not apply here.
Not sure which pattern is yours?
Tell reception what you’re feeling and ask for an appointment. Reception confirms availability and your date and time. After-hours messages are reviewed when the practice reopens; urgent symptoms should not wait for a reply.